![Minnesota United midfielder Johan Venegas (11) attempted a shot against the Vancouver Whitecaps in the second half Saturday. ] AARON LAVINSKY ï aaron.lavinsky@startribune.com Minnesota United FC played the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn.](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/CMDRGZO3VBPH4LSU76L3NE6IRY.jpg?&w=1080)
Minnesota United made it official Friday: Midfielder Johan Venegas, one of the club's first Major League Soccer acquisitions a year ago, has been loaned for one year to play for the Costa Rican team Deportivo Saprissa.
Venegas, a Costa Rican native, scored two goals and had five assists in 22 matches for the Loons in 2017. He started 12 times.
Minnesota United acquired Venegas in a trade with Montreal on the day of the expansion draft last January. He had played limited minutes with the Impact but had more success with the Costa Rican national team, prompting the Loons' interest.
Internet reports of the loan arrangement first surfaced last month. Venegas will play for Costa Rica in World Cup competition this year.
"We think this is the best environment for Johan as he continues preparations for the World Cup," said Manny Lagos, Minnesota United sporting director. "We hope he does well and has a successful World Cup."
PAUL KLAUDA
