"the Killer Bees", a reference to the Galaxy's uniforms and the way the club's attacking edge could cause trouble for the other 11 MLS sides. "Killer Bees huh? Sounds very interesting," said an amused Ramirez.
For the moment, Ramirez will remain with the Guatemalan national team to compete for the UNCAF Cup (Central American championship and CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifier hosted by Guatemala). After the Cup, he will train with CSD Municipal for a few days to keep in shape. Ramirez cannot join the Galaxy until his visa allowing him to work in the United States is granted.
The expected date for Ramirez to join the team will be March 5, in Spain. The situation is similar to that of Andreas Herzog and Marcelo Saragosa in 2004, both of whom joined the Galaxy on a preseason trip to France before being issued U.S. visas.
"As soon as UNCAF is done I will train with my ex-team just to keep fit for a few days before my March 5 trip to Pamplona where I will meet up with my new teammates," said "Pando," which means "Bowlegged" in English.
Ramirez made his professional debut with Municipal in 1996, and contributed 58 league goals and 11 more in cup competitions for the rojos. He led the Torneo Clausura in the 2001-02 season with 18 goals. In his nearly eight seasons with Municipal, the club won four league titles, two national cup titles and one UNCAF club championship.
Rene Romano and James Demastus are contributors to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
Contributing: guatefutbol.com; Diario Al Dia (Guatemala)
