Major League Soccer (MLS) continues to strengthen with talent from Latin America and Liga MX. In this transfer market, Real Salt Lake signed Uruguayan defender Juan Manuel Sanabria, who will leave Atlético de San Luis to begin a new stage in U.S. soccer.
According to confirmed information, the Potosí club sold Sanabria’s pass to the Utah team, which will offer him a four-and-a-half-year contract, valid until June 2030. This is a long-term commitment on the part of Real Salt Lake, which strengthens its squad with a player in full soccer maturity.
From Mexico to MLS: a constant evolution
Juan Manuel Sanabria arrived in Mexican soccer in 2021 from Atlético de Madrid to join Atlético de San Luis initially on loan.
Since his arrival, the Uruguayan defender has become a recurrent piece in the team’s scheme.
He stands out for his regularity, physical capacity and tactical discipline.
Two years later, the San Luis Potosí club acquired his pass, consolidating its confidence in a player who, as the seasons went by, established himself as a regular starter.
Currently, Juan Manuel Sanabria is 25 years old, a key age to make the leap to a league like MLS, which combines competitive growth with international projection.
Recent performance with Atletico San Luis
During the Apertura 2025, Juan Manuel Sanabria was one of the players most used by the coaching staff.
He played 1,440 minutes in 16 games, all of them as a starter.
He also contributed a goal, reflecting his consistency and presence on both sides of the field.
In the Clausura 2026, before his departure, the Uruguayan defender had already played 270 minutes in three matches, in which he scored one goal, maintaining a solid and regular performance.
His good level awakened interest in Mexico and abroad.
During the Apertura 2025, América even tried to sign him, although the negotiation did not come to fruition.
It is a long-term bet by Real Salt Lake
QuéOnnda.com
What does Real Salt Lake gain with Sanabria?
For Real Salt Lake, the arrival of Juan Manuel Sanabria represents a strategic investment.
The club adds a defender with international experience, experience in a demanding league such as Liga MX and room for growth in U.S. soccer.
His contract until 2030 gives stability to both the player and the institution.
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