FRISCO, Texas – After six fruitful seasons, Michael Barrios’ time with FC Dallas has come to an end as the club announced the Colombian winger has been traded to the Colorado Rapids in return for an International roster spot as well as a higher 2021 MLS SuperDraft pick.
"[My time with FC Dallas] was practically part of my life because I have been in Dallas for six years," Barrios said. "Where they supported me as if they were my second family. The club was my second home. So, I’m grateful to them for all this time that they gave me their support and their trust."
Barrios was a near ever-present figure in Dallas’ attack since joining from Uniautónoma FC in 2015. The Barranquilla native featured in 179 of FCD’s 192 regular season games over his six-season stay, including a three-year, 96-game run without missing a game—the second-longest streak in MLS history among outfield players.
But Barrios wasn’t just an ironman. He was also among Dallas’ most creative and influential attacking players over his tenure. Barrios finished as the club’s leading assist maker in three separate seasons and ends his FCD career tied for the third-most assists in franchise history (44, along with Mauro Díaz). And, most importantly, he was a major part of the Dallas team that won the U.S. Open Cup and MLS Supporters’ Shield double in 2016.
“Obviously, we know all the talent he showed on the field to help the club win trophies,” said head coach Luchi Gonzalez. “He’ll always be a part of the club’s history. And just from a human being perspective, he was such a pleasure to work with and to be a part of the club. So, this is a bittersweet one. It’s all gratitude and being thankful for Mikey’s contributions and sacrifices and for being a part of this family.”
While it’s always difficult to say goodbye to a club legend, there’s a feeling that the time is right for both parties. Dallas recently signed Jáder Obrian, a fellow Colombian winger who typically operates on the right flank. And considering Barrios saw his playing time diminish towards the end of 2020 (he was a substitute in both playoff games), a change of scenery could be exactly what the 29-year-old needs. Plus, receiving Colorado's 15th overall SuperDraft pick (in exchange for FCD's 21st overall) as well as an extra International roster spot will also help Dallas build for the future.
“Michael Barrios has been an amazing player for us and we’re thankful for his contributions to the organization both on and off the field,” said FC Dallas President Dan Hunt. “He brought so much joy to our fans. We wish him the best in his next chapter.”
Although the club must turn over a new leaf, Barrios’ contributions in Dallas will not be forgotten. He finishes in the top five for both appearances and games started in FCD history; and was always a fan favorite for his affable personality and signature mohawk hairstyle. And, thankfully, the Toyota Stadium faithful will still get to see Barrios in person at least once a year when the Rapids come to town.
"To all the fans, thank you for your support at every match," Barrios said. "Your messages of encouragement on social media filled me with enthusiasm to continue working every day. I think you all got to know me and see the type of person that I was on and off the field. To everyone who was always supporting me personally, thank you from the bottom of my heart, I am happy to have been part of the club for many years and to feel your support and joy that I felt at every game, that’s something that will never change."
