As the Timbers look to reinforce their defense for the 2012 season, one man is determined to add his stamp to the back line. At 6’ 1” and 175 pounds, Hanyer “El Mosco” (Mosquito) Mosquera has the archetypical stature of an MLS defender with added agility and speed to boot.
Mosquera joins the Timbers after playing six seasons in Colombia’s top leagues. He spent most of those in the Liga Postobon (first division), splitting time between Corporación Deportes Quindío (2007-10) and Club Deportivo La Equidad Seguros (2010-11). In total, Mosquera appeared in 127 matches and scored six goals in Colombia’s top flight.
Mosquera now reunites himself with former Deportes Quindío teammate, Diego Chara, and the two wish to replicate their success by making MLS playoffs with the Timbers as they did together with Deportes Quindio. Mosquera has gained maturity and earned experience having participated in Liga Postobon, Copa Colombia, and Copa Sudamericana. Now, he looks to bring his talents and leadership stateside.
“I’m looking to bring concentration to the back line,” said Mosquera. “With my speed and strong aerial game, I will be able to add some security in defense in order to support my team and move the ball forward.”
It is no secret that MLS has established a reputation of exhibiting an above average speed of play and physicality, both traits that Mosquera seems to have taken into account already.
“I have heard that the speed of play in MLS is very fast,” said Mosquera. “It’s competitive and physical, so I need to be alert and concentrated at all times because I know I will get punished if I am not constantly prepared.”
But he won’t be alone. Along with a deepened defensive back line, Mosquera also will enjoy the support of his fellow countrymen, and standout teammates, in Jorge Perlaza and Diego Chara, two players that have demonstrated that the Latin flavor is having a great impact in MLS.
“[Jorge and Diego] have really helped me get adjusted to the city and the team,” said Mosquera. “They explain what I don’t understand during practices, have helped me search for apartments and find good places to eat around town. Everyone on the team is equally really nice too; they have helped me get comfortable and stay motivated.”
Even prior to Mosquera’s arrival, Chara and Perlaza’s influence helped sway the central defender’s choice to come to Portland.
“They spoke well of the MLS and of the Timbers,” continued Mosquera. “They informed me that the Timbers are a great organization to play for, and that the fans are uplifting. That really helped make my decision to come play here a lot easier.”
However, it’s not only the interpersonal relationships that have helped Mosquera get acclimated to his new home, he finds the City of Roses very intoxicating along with the welcoming people.
“The city is very beautiful,” said Mosquera. “I really like it here and I hope to stay here a very long time. The people I’ve encountered so far have been very nice to me. This is my first time in the United States, and so far it’s been a great experience, I can’t wait for my wife to get here from Colombia.”
If Mosquera finds his niche on the pitch as easily as he has found it in the Pacific Northwest, we are in for a treat.
