Valdes began his professional career with America de Cali in 2003, where he became team captain and won the Torneo Finalizacion in 2008. The center back was transferred to Independiente Santa Fe a year later, clinching the Colombian Cup title while also starring as team captain.
Valdes helped the Colombian National Team win the U-20 South American Cup in 2005 and the Central American and Caribbean Games a year later. After debuting with the senior national team in 2008, Valdes has been capped four times.
Ruiz joined the Union on a free transfer from Aris FC of the Greek SuperLiga on February 22 during the club's 2011 preseason camp in Orlando, Fla. The Guatemalan international played in 14 league matches for Philadelphia, scoring six goals.
ABOUT KEYSTONE SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT LLC
Keystone Sports and Entertainment, LLC, is the ownership group of Philadelphia Union and is comprised of Chairman/Owner Jay Sugarman, CEO and Operating Partner Nick Sakiewicz, Christopher Buccini, Robert Buccini and David Pollin, founding partners of The Buccini/Pollin Group. The group launched the Philadelphia Union's inaugural season on March 25, 2010 and opened PPL Park, the brand new $122 million soccer specific stadium on the Chester Waterfront, on June 27, 2010. PPL Park, the home of Philadelphia Union, holds approximately 18,500 seats and will host various events throughout the year.
(Copyright 2011 Philadelphia Union. Reprinted by permission)
