Portland Timbers sign Colombian talent, but there’s one problem no one saw coming | OneFootball

The Portland Timbers are not standing idly by this offseason. Looking to firm up its back line, the club turned to Colombian soccer to lock down its newest addition: Jimer Fory. At 22, the left back joins from Independiente Medellín on a good deal through 2028 with an option for 2029. A move that seems smart upon first glance, it is not without its challenges and expectations.

A signing with a strategy behind it, or just one made for depth? The young Colombian already possesses a respectable resume. He has made 128 professional appearances, having divided his time between Atlético Nacional, Deportivo Pereira, and Independiente Medellín. In his career, the left back-who can also play as a center back-has recorded 3 goals and 8 assists.

Portland already has an established starter in the position: Claudio Bravo. Since 2021, the Argentine has been a key figure on the left side of the defense. So, where exactly does Fory fit in? Is he just a high-end backup, or does he have the potential to fight for a starting spot?

The answer might lie in the words of head coach Phil Neville: "We’ve been tracking Jimer for the past six months. He’s an exceptional left back who can also play as a left center back. Jimer is brilliant in the air and a great athlete with massive potential."

Fory’s versatility is, without a doubt, a major asset. He could be an option in a three-center-back system or provide extra defensive stability in tougher matchups.

Portland is building a roster or team?

Together with Fory, the club has signed João Ortiz, a midfielder coming from Independiente del Valle, and Kevin Kelsy, a forward coming from Shakhtar Donetsk. From that alone, their strategy becomes fairly evident: heavy investment in youthful South American talent.

Portland's general manager, Ned Grabavoy, when announcing the arrival of the Colombian, put extra weight into his words to complete the vision: "One of our biggest priorities this offseason was identifying players who could strengthen our defensive line. We’re very pleased with Jimer’s signing and believe he can make an immediate impact while continuing to develop."

The plan sounds promising, but will these signings actually elevate the roster? The Timbers ended last season without much spark and need real improvements to compete for something bigger in 2025.

Neville’s second season

The 2025 MLS season kicks off on February 23 as Portland Timbers host Vancouver Whitecaps. It is the second campaign at the helm for Phil Neville, and the English boss is aware that excuses will no longer be tolerated.

The Timbers had a spotty campaign last season, and a more competitive team is expected by the supporters this time.