Who Are Minnesota United? History, Stats & More
MLS has definitely come of age in this 21st century. This scrappy team from Saint Paul has been making waves since its founding in 2010. After years of grinding it out in lower-tier leagues, the Loons finally made it to the big leagues when they were granted an expansion team in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2017.
They play their home games at the stunning Allianz Field, which is quickly becoming one of the most iconic stadiums in the league.
History Of Minnesota United: Founded In 2010
Minnesota United FC, known as the Loons, has a storied history that began in 2010 when they were founded as NSC Minnesota. The team played in the North American Soccer League, where they won the championship in 2011 as Minnesota Stars FC. In 2013, they rebranded as Minnesota United FC, still playing in the NASL until 2016.
The team’s fortunes changed in 2017 when they were awarded an expansion franchise in Major League Soccer (MLS). With a passionate fan base and exciting players like Darwin Quintero and Emanuel Reynoso, the Loons have quickly become one of the most intriguing teams in the league.
Who Was The Founder Of Minnesota United?
Minnesota United FC was not founded by a single individual, but rather by a group of soccer enthusiasts who sought to bring professional soccer to Minnesota. The group, led by former Minnesota Thunder player Nick Rogers, began work on creating a new professional team in 2009. The team underwent several name changes and rebrandings over the years, eventually becoming Minnesota United FC, and was awarded an expansion franchise in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2017.
Current President Of Minnesota United; Who Is Bill McGuire?
Distinguished Minnesota sports personalities are the owners of Minnesota United FC. The ownership group is led by Bill McGuire, who previously served as CEO of UnitedHealth Group, one of the largest healthcare companies in the United States. McGuire led the company from 1991 to 2006, overseeing a period of significant growth and expansion. During his tenure, UnitedHealth Group’s revenue grew from $400 million to more than $50 billion.
After leaving UnitedHealth Group, McGuire turned his attention to the world of soccer. McGuire has been a major supporter of the sport in the United States, helping to fund a number of soccer-related initiatives through his family foundation. He has also been involved in numerous philanthropic causes, particularly those related to health and education.
Stadium Of Minnesota United: Allianz Field
Minnesota United FC’s home stadium, Allianz Field, is located in the Midway neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota. It was specifically built for soccer and has a seating capacity of 19,400. One of the stadium’s most distinctive features is its unique, translucent exterior, which allows natural light to filter through, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Allianz Field opened in 2019 and has quickly gained a reputation as one of the premier soccer stadiums in the United States. In addition to serving as the home for Minnesota United, it has also hosted concerts and other events. Sustainability was a key consideration in the stadium’s design, with features like a stormwater management system and green roof helping to minimize its environmental impact.
Q: What is the name of MINNESOTA UNITED’s stadium?
Ans: Allianz Field is the home stadium of MINNESOTA UNITED.
Fans And Culture Of Minnesota United
Minnesota United FC has a passionate and dedicated fan base that is known for its unwavering support of the team. The team’s supporters are known as the Dark Clouds, and they can often be seen at Allianz Field and at away matches, cheering on the Loons with infectious energy.
In addition to the Dark Clouds, Minnesota United has other supporters groups, including the True North Elite and Red Loons. These groups are known for their raucous displays of support, including choreographed tifos, drumming, and chanting. The team’s supporters are deeply committed to building a strong soccer culture in Minnesota and creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all fans.
Minnesota United Key Individuals
Notable Players In The History Of Minnesota United
Minnesota United FC has had many talented players over the years who have left a mark on the team’s history. Some of the most notable include Miguel Ibarra, Christian Ramirez, Kevin Molino, and Ike Opara.
Miguel Ibarra, a midfielder who played for Minnesota United from 2012 to 2018, was known for his creative play and ability to score goals. He was a fan favorite during his time with the team and was named the NASL Player of the Year in 2014.
Christian Ramirez, a striker who played for Minnesota United from 2014 to 2018, was the team’s all-time leading scorer until Kevin Molino surpassed him in 2020. Ramirez helped the team win the NASL Championship in 2017 and was named to the NASL Best XI that year.
Kevin Molino, a midfielder who played for Minnesota United from 2017 to 2020, played a crucial role in the team’s transition to Major League Soccer. He was named the MVP of the MLS is Back Tournament in 2020 and helped lead the team to the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in 2019.
Finally, Ike Opara, a center-back who played for Minnesota United from 2019 to 2021, was a key player in the team’s strong defensive performances during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. He was named the MLS Defender of the Year in 2019.
Best Manager In The History Of Minnesota United
Adrian Heath has had a significant impact on Minnesota United as a manager and is widely considered the best in the team’s history. Since joining the team in 2017, Heath has helped establish a strong team culture, develop young players, and create a winning mentality within the squad.
Under his leadership, Minnesota United has transformed from a lower-league team to a competitive force in Major League Soccer. Heath has been at the helm for 6 seasons, and has since helped the team establish a reputation for playing an attacking style of soccer.
Heath is known for his tactical acumen and ability to adapt his tactics to different opponents. His ability to nurture young players and develop their potential has also been widely recognized. His success with Minnesota United has led to speculation of him coaching at a higher level of professional soccer.
Q: Who is the president of Minnesota United?
Ans. Bill McGuire currently serves the role of president for Minnesota United.
Minnesota United Record Breakers
All-Time Top Scorers Of Minnesota United
Darwin Quintero is a Colombian soccer player who has earned a reputation as a dynamic, versatile attacker.
Known for his speed, dribbling skills, and ability to score goals from a variety of positions, Quintero has played for several clubs throughout his career, including América de Cali, Santos Laguna, and Minnesota United FC in the United States. With his technical ability and creative flair, he has become a fan favorite.
| NAME OF THE PLAYER | NUMBER OF GOALS SCORED |
| Darwin Quintero | 27 |
| Robin Lod | 26 |
| Kevin Molino | 25 |
| Christian Ramirez | 21 |
| Ethan Finaley | 20 |
Q: Who is the all-time highest goal scorer of Minnesota United?
Ans: Darwin Quintero has scored the most goals in the history of Minnesota United.
All-Time Top Assist Providers Of Minnesota United
Emanuel Reynoso is an Argentine professional soccer player who plays as an attacking midfielder for Minnesota United FC in Major League Soccer.
Known for his vision, passing ability, and creativity on the field, Reynoso has become a key player for the team since joining in 2020, helping to lead them to the MLS Cup playoffs.
| NAME OF THE PLAYER | NUMBER OF ASSISTS |
| Emanuel Reynoso | 22 |
| Darwin Quintero | 20 |
| Kevin Molino | 19 |
| Jan Gregus | 17 |
| Franco Fragapane | 13 |
Q: Who is the all-time assist provider for Minnesota United?
Ans. Emanuel Reynoso with his eagle-eyed vision has provided the most assists for Minnesota United
Who Has The Most All-Time Appearances For Minnesota United?
Michael Boxall is a New Zealand international soccer player who currently plays for Minnesota United FC in Major League Soccer. A versatile defender known for his aerial ability and physicality, Boxall has been an integral part of Minnesota’s backline since joining the club in 2017.
In addition to his success with Minnesota, Boxall has also represented the New Zealand national team at both the youth and senior levels.
| NAME OF THE PLAYER | NUMBER OF APPEARANCES |
| Michael Boxall | 167 |
| Brent Kallman | 112 |
| Ethan Finlay | 107 |
| Robin Lod | 95 |
| Abu Danladi | 93 |
Q: When did MINNESOTA UNITED start playing in the MLS?
Ans: MINNESOTA UNITED was founded in 2010 and started playing in the MLS in 2017.
Most Expensive Transfers In The History Of Minnesota United
The versatile Argentine attacking midfielder, Emanuel Reynoso, joined Minnesota for a record-breaking fee back in September 2020. Minnesota’s number 10 is yet to win a trophy for the club, and must be eager to, having already won two championships with former club Boca Juniors.
| NAME | CLUB FROM | CLUB TO | TRANSFER AMOUNT |
| Emanuel Reynoso | Boca Juniors | Minnesota United | $4.27m |
| Adrien Hunou | Rennes | Minnesota United | $3.27m |
| Jan Gregus | FC Copenhagen | Minnesota United | $2.18m |
| Thomas Chacon | Danubio FC | Minnesota United | $2.00m |
| Mender Garcia | Once Caldas | Minnesota United | $1.82m |
Conclusion: Overview Of Minnesota United Legacy
In conclusion, Minnesota United has a rich history and a promising future in the world of professional soccer. From humble beginnings in the lower leagues, the team has risen to become a competitive force in Major League Soccer, with a strong fanbase and impressive achievements to its name.
With a state-of-the-art stadium and a dedicated ownership group, the team is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. As the team continues to grow and evolve, it is sure to attract more attention from fans and followers of the beautiful game in the United States and beyond.
