Maikel Chang's Departure Marks the End of an Era with Real Salt Lake | OneFootball

Real Salt Lake (RSL) announced Wednesday that midfielder Maikel Chang is among a group of players out of contract following the 2024 season. It brings an end to Chang's six years in charge of the club in which he has been a consistent performer across several competitions.

A native of Havana, Cuba, Chang joined RSL in 2018 after spending the previous season with the club’s USL affiliate Real Monarchs in Salt Lake City. Chang played 138 matches for RSL in Utah and scored five goals and added 20 assists in MLS regular season competition. He also played 73 matches for Monarchs, putting in a lot of work for their 2019 USL Championship title.

Chang made three starts in 22 regular season matches in the 2024 season, and tallied a pair of assists. His minutes were sparse, though, and his pass accuracy from possession stood at 78.4. With his versatility as an attacking midfielder, plus his ability to play on the right, such as he did with ease at RSL over the years.

Chang's Legacy

Chang went beyond statistics as a contributor. He was one of the first Cuban born players in MLS, breaking barriers and contributing to inspiration from players from nontraditional soccer nations. His technical skills and vision have made him a valuable part of the squad at RSL and in 2022, when he recorded six assists in 33 games, he was a key player. Unfortunately, an underrated part of the team’s approach was his ability to link up play and bring creativity to attacking third.

RSL's Current Roster Strategy

Chang’s soon-to-be ex club, Real Salt Lake, is set to play its 21st year in MLS when it starts this season. Several of RSL's players recently had their contracts renewed when they were exercised, while other players such as Chang had their contracts expire.

Now the roster combines older hands like Pablo Ruiz and Chicho Arango and younger prospects like Diego Luna and Jude Wellings. The club is also keen on its academy pipeline and has 10 players eligible for promotion to first team from their academy in 2025.

What’s Next for Chang?

Chang, at 33, has accumulated lots of experience and technical quality, placing him high on the potential talent list of other MLS clubs or teams abroad. But his ability to flip from one role in midfield to another could draw suitors who are looking for a creative presence with experience in staying field.

The end of a RSL era is the beginning of a new one for Chang. According to Cesar Rosendo, the midfielder is looking to secure opportunities to continue his professional journey as free agency opens up on December 12.

RSL’s Outlook for 2025

And with the 2024 season done, Real Salt Lake enters the 2025 season with a record season to build off: club best in points (59) and goals (65). Its return to international competition was sealed with a spot in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup as well.

The inevitable transitions teams will have to go through as they seek to evolve and remain competitive is captured with Chang’s departure. Football fans and teammates will continue to remember his impact the Claret and Cobalt way as he will no longer don the badge.