When Vito Mannone joined Minnesota United prior to the 2019 season, acquiring the ex-Arsenal man from Reading required a considerable outlay of funds and an international slot — a high price for a goalkeeper in MLS. But Head Coach Adrian Heath and the rest of the staff had watched the team concede 141 goals over its first two seasons. As they upgraded the defense with additions like MLS vets Ike Opara and Osvaldo Alonso and internationals like Romain Metanire, they knew they would need a steadying presence in goal to complete the renovation of the squad and turn them into playoff contenders.
Vito Mannone: Goalkeeper of the Year
