D.C. United announced Monday night that the club and Ronald Cerritos reached a mutual agreement to release the 29-year-old forward from his contract. The agreement allows United financial and roster opportunities to pursue another player and Cerritos freedom to pursue playing opportunities abroad.
"We presented several options to Ronald, including potential trades and a restructured contract," said United technical director Dave Kasper. "In the end, we mutually agreed that this decision was in the best interest of both parties. I would like to thank Ronald for his contributions to D.C. United. He is a true professional and a fantastic person. We wish him the best of luck going forward."
Cerritos departs United after joining the Black-and-Red in August 2003 from the Dallas Burn in a trade involving Ali Curtis. The Salvadoran forward tallied one goal and one assist in 10 appearances for United in 2003. In 10 games this season (six starts), Cerritos scored two goals and added one assist.
Cerritos, an eight year MLS veteran, spent his first five seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, where he totaled 55 goals and 38 assists. In 2002, he joined the Burn and netted seven goals and seven assists prior to joining United. For his MLS career, the three-time All-Star totaled 65 goals and 47 assists for 177 points.
