RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond Kickers defender Juan Pablo Monticelli is tying a bow on an eight-year professional career, announcing his retirement from soccer to pursue new ventures outside of the game in the business world.
“Being able to play my last professional season in Richmond was an amazing experience,” Monticelli said. “The coaching staff, ownership, players, and fans were all so welcoming and humble from the first day to the last day. Richmond will always be a special place for me. Thank you to everyone that made my last season so memorable.”
Monticelli quickly earned a fan-favorite status in his only season with the Kickers. The defender scored in his debut at New England Revolution II on April 17, 2021. In the dying moments of the first half, Monticelli crashed into the box on a corner kick and beat the keeper to double the lead for the Reds as they went on to win the match 3-0.
He grew to love a match against Revs II as he would also score his second goal of the season against the MLS affiliate. Again, with the first half waning, Monticelli would capitalize on a set piece – this time to retake the lead for the Reds. The defender quickly raced over to Section O to celebrate his first City Stadium goal in front of the Red Army. The Kickers would go on to win the match 3-2, and Monticelli would mark the celebrations by waving the City of Richmond flag with the home supporters.
“Monti came in last year and quickly established himself as a hard-nosed left back for us during preseason,” said Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky, “His relentless bite and full personality will be missed on the field and in the locker room. We wish him the greatest of luck in his new adventure and he is welcome here anytime as one of the Reds.”
Monticelli finished the 2021 season with 18 appearances while playing 1,357 minutes. He proved to be a gritty defender capable of playing as a left outside back as well as tucking in as a centerback when needed. He ranked top 5 amongst his teammates in aerial duels won (24), interceptions (34), blocks (11), and clearances (46).
The 24-year-old hangs his boots up after an eight-year career that saw him also play in both the FC Dallas and Orlando City systems of the MLS as well as multiple years playing in Mexico.
The Richmond Kickers wish Monti all the best in his future endeavors. Once a Red, always a Red.
