Wigan Athletic FA Cup winner Roger Espinoza has announced his retirement at the age of 37.
Raised in Denver, Colorado, the former Honduran international spent 14 of his 16 Major League Soccer seasons with Sporting Kansas City.
Additionally, Espinoza participated in two World Cups, two CONCACAF Gold Cups, the 2012 London Olympic Games, and earned 52 caps for Honduras between 2009 and 2017.
However, his two years with Latics and the historic victory over Manchester City at Wembley in May 2013 were the pinnacle of his career.
Despite having just joined Latics halfway through the season, Espinoza made a fast impression on the team, demonstrating his versatility by substituting for injured players Maynor Figueroa and Jean Beausejour at left wing-back in the championship game.
After graduating from Ohio State University, he joined the American club, which declared his retirement.
“Espinoza helped Sporting to three Lamar Hunt US Open Cup titles and 10 appearances in the MLS Cup play-offs as one of the most accomplished players in club history and one of the longest-serving midfielders in Major League Soccer,” stated the club in a statement.
Despite having just joined Latics halfway through the season, Espinoza made a fast impression on the team, demonstrating his versatility by substituting for injured players Maynor Figueroa and Jean Beausejour at left wing-back in the championship game.
After graduating from Ohio State University, he joined the American club, which declared his retirement.
“Espinoza helped Sporting to three Lamar Hunt US Open Cup titles and 10 appearances in the MLS Cup play-offs as one of the most accomplished players in club history and one of the longest-serving midfielders in Major League Soccer,” stated the club in a statement.
“Espinoza, a cherished member of the Kansas City community and a fan favorite at Children’s Mercy Park, played for Sporting twice, from 2008 to 2012 and from 2015 to 2023.
“With 399 appearances in all competitions, he is second in club history. He is ranked third in terms of starts (330), minutes (29,162), assists (49), and total goal contributions (63).
“With 21 games played in the US Open Cup—a famous domestic tournament he helped the team win in 2012, 2015, and 2017—Espinoza, who scored 14 goals for Kansas City, is Sporting’s all-time leader. He also sits third on club rankings with 21 play-off appearances.
“Well-known for his intense rivalry, unceasing work ethic, and capable leadership both on and off the field, Espinoza concluded his time with Kansas City with 338
games played throughout the regular season. He helped Sporting to 150 MLS victories, the second-most in franchise history, while continuously finishing among the league leaders in duels won and tackles won throughout the course of 14 MLS seasons.”
On Saturday at Children’s Mercy Park, Espinoza will be “formally recognized” during a pre-match ceremony prior to Sporting’s matchup with Austin FC. Following the game, there will be a fireworks display.
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