Real Salt Lake’s roster continued its evolution on Wednesday as midfielder Luis Gil, whose contract expired at the conclusion of 2015, announced that he had signed with Queretaro in Mexico’s Liga MX. Still just 22 years old, Gil’s signing ended six seasons with the Claret-and-Cobalt.
Gil originally signed in MLS in 2010 at just 16 years old after establishing himself as an up-and-comer with the U.S. U-17 National Team. A trade with the Kansas City Wizards landed him with Real Salt Lake, where he made his MLS debut on March 26, 2011 in a 4-1 win over the LA Galaxy. He finished with 134 MLS appearances, 89 of them starts, and had 11 goals and nine assists. Across all competitions, he totaled 159 appearances with 106 starts, 12 goals and 10 assists.
His MLS career saw him contribute to an RSL team that appeared in finals in the 2010-11 CONCACAF Champions League, 2013 MLS Cup and 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Through his social media channels, Gil left a sincere note to the fans.
“It’s official, I just signed with Queretaro FC in Mexico! It has always been a dream of mine to play in Liga MX and I can’t wait to get started with Los Gallos Blancos. I want to thank MLS and Real Salt Lake for 6 great years. I will always be grateful to RSL and especially Jason Kreis for bringing me in as a young player and giving me a chance. I’m excited for this new chapter and helping Queretaro win some championships!”
Gil ranks 11th all-time in RSL’s history with 134 league appearances and his 11 goals tie him for 10th in club history. In addition to his club success, he also progressed to the U.S. National Team and served as captain for the U.S. U-23 National Team during the build-up to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
RSL retains Gil’s MLS rights if he is to return to the league at any point.
