Djordje Mihailovic Joins Colorado Rapids: Who Is He And What Can He Offer?

The Colorado Rapids started their year with a new big-name addition to the team, as they announced on January 8 that USMNT international Djorde Mihailovic would be joining them.

This signing marks the midfielder’s return to America after his time in Eredivisie. The athlete entered the club during midseason in the winter transfer window and will train with head coach Chris Armas.

The MLS returns in February, so it is a good time to visit Denver sports betting pages and check if the Rapids position themselves favourably in the odds.

Making The Money Work

Mihailovic signed a four-year contract with the club, with a club option through 2028. The acquisition cost the Rapids over three million dollars, with an additional $75,000 to FC Cincinnati after their discovery during the 2024 General Allocation Money (GAM).

The club stated that Djordje was a “top signing.” They praised Mihailovic’s competitive nature and play-making ability, which, according to Chris Armas, will make the team score more goals; he added, “he has the personality and intensity needed to excel with our style of play.”

Supporters of the Rapids are intrigued by how Djordje will adapt to Arma’s signature 4-2-3-1 formation since the players tend to use a rather traditional attacking style. Djordje also talked about his transfer, making a video where he said, “I’m finally here; I’m so excited to make so many memories with you guys this year.” He is set to begin his time with the club in late February.

Before the transfer, Djordje was in AZ (Alkmaar Zaanstreek), the first-division club from the Netherlands, where he scored two goals during the 2023 Dutch league. The athlete also shines thanks to his experience with the UEFA Conference League group.

An Experienced Youngster

Prior to his participation in AZ, he played for Chicago Fire and CF Montreal from 2017 to 2022. He initially joined Chicago Fire in 2013 since he spent most of his teenage years playing for Chicago Blast. Djordje first played under 16s and later under 18s. While playing for the Chicago Fire from 2017 to 2020, he stood out with seven goals and 12 assists throughout 73 matches. This club was his MLS debut. Still, he suffered an injury when he was tackled, causing him to be sidelined for some months.

As for his time with Montreal, he played in 61 games, scoring thirteen goals. He was signed for $400,000 in December 2020. Mihailovic was Montreal’s MVP in 2021 and played a crucial role in taking the club to that year’s Canadian Championship; this was Mihailovic’s first-ever trophy after they won against Toronto FC.

The following year, he played in the CONCACAF Champions League, where the club got to the quarterfinals. His 68 appearances with the Canadian club gave him the opportunity to have a position in Europe.

Things Didn’t Work Out In Europe

He spent barely a year with AZ before joining the Rapids. He joined the Dutch club on January 1st of 2023 and kicked off his performance with a goal against the Go Ahead Eagles shortly after, and later in August against Santa Coloma from Andorra. This transfer cost about six million dollars; still, he struggled with having enough minutes in the team to showcase his abilities.

On the other hand, the playmaker played in the U.S. Men’s National Team, participating in the 2019 Golden Cup, marking his international debut, and getting into the semifinals against Panama and the 2023 edition as well. Overall, he has played on the American team on 11 different occasions, scoring three goals, including last year in the Concacaf Nations League.

Mihailovic thrived during his appearances in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, scoring against St. Kitts and Nevis. His career extends to 180 matches across the three teams. He has a 25-goal and 35 assists.

The 25-year-old will be the Designated Player, counting with a partial salary cap, and is set to be an upgrade for the club. Both the club, supporters of the team, and fans of the player expect that his performance will only get better while being with the Rapids.

In their announcement, the Colorado Rapids added, “Djordje is an exciting, skillful player with a proven track record of success in MLS and at the international level.”

This will be Djordje’s third MLS club, the president of the club, Pádrag Smith, welcomed him by showing his excitement for Mihailovic joining the team. Smith commented, “[Djordje] is entering his prime years, and we eagerly anticipate the intensity and boldness he brings, which will undoubtedly make us a more dangerous group.”

However, Djordje Mihailovic wasn’t the Rapids’ only addition. They also signed Omir Fernandez, Miguel Navarro, Jasper Löffelsend, and goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who was transferred from Manchester City. Along with Djordje Mihailovic, Steffen is set to raise the team’s expectations.

The roster also includes other DPs, such as Rafael Navarro and Kevin Cabral. Meanwhile, Djordje will play beside homegrown athletes, including Connor Ronan and Cole Basset, and other great players like Sidnei Tavares from FC Porto.