Andy Ariel Najar Rodríguez, often known simply as Andy Najar, is a prominent Honduran professional footballer born on March 16, 1993. At the age of thirteen, Najar and his family moved from Honduras to the United States, settling in the Washington metropolitan area. He attended Thomas A. Edison High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where his football journey began to take shape. Najar’s talent quickly caught the eye, leading him to join D.C. United’s youth academy in 2008.
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Rise in American Soccer
Najar, standing at 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 m), showcased his skills primarily as a right-back and right-winger. His remarkable performance in D.C. United’s youth academy earned him recognition, including being named to the USSF Development Academy Starting XI in 2009. During the 2009 US Developmental Academy Finals in Los Angeles, Najar emerged as the leading scorer, leaving an indelible mark on American youth soccer.
Professional Debut with D.C. United
On March 27, 2010, Najar made his professional debut for D.C. United in the opening game of the 2010 MLS season against the Kansas City Wizards. His prowess on the field quickly became evident, and he scored his first professional goal on April 28, 2010, in a US Open Cup game against FC Dallas. The same year, Najar was honored as the MLS Rookie of the Year for his outstanding contributions during the 2010 season.
European Sojourn with Anderlecht
In January 2013, Najar embarked on a new chapter in his career by moving to Belgian Pro League champions Anderlecht on a one-month loan, which was later finalized into a full transfer on January 30, 2013. The reported transfer fee for Najar’s move to Anderlecht was $3 million. During his time with the Belgian club, Najar played a crucial role, contributing both defensively and offensively.
Return to MLS and D.C. United
In February 2020, Najar trained with Los Angeles FC (LAFC) during their preseason. On June 17, 2020, he officially returned to Major League Soccer, signing with LAFC. However, after the 2020 season, LAFC decided not to renew Najar’s contract. Following his release, Najar returned to his former club, D.C. United, for a six-week trial period. The Black-and-Red eventually signed him to a one-year deal with an option for two more years.
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Najar’s return to D.C. United marked a significant moment in his career. On April 17, 2021, he made a notable appearance in a 2–1 victory over New York City FC, showcasing his continued impact on the field. Najar’s journey continues, with the hope of further contributions and achievements in the seasons to come.
International Career
On April 6, 2011, Andy Najar officially announced his decision to play for the Honduras national team, choosing his birth nation over the United States. He made his first appearance for Honduras on September 3, 2011, against Colombia, marking the beginning of his international career. Najar’s commitment to representing Honduras on the global stage has been evident in various tournaments, including the 2012 Olympics and the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Career Statistics
As of March 4, 2023, Andy Najar’s career statistics reflect his impactful journey through different clubs and competitions. From his early days with D.C. United to his experiences with Anderlecht, LAFC, and the return to D.C. United, Najar’s contributions are well-documented.
| Club | Season | League | Cup | Continental | Other | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D.C. United | 2010 | MLS | 26 | 5 | 2 | 0 |
| Anderlecht | 2013–14 | Belgian Pro League | 15 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Los Angeles FC | 2020 | MLS | 8 | 0 | — | — |
| D.C. United | 2021 | — | 26 | 1 | — | — |
| D.C. United | 2022 | — | 23 | 0 | — | — |
| D.C. United | 2023 | — | 2 | 0 | — | — |
| Career Total | — | 177 | 16 | 15 | 1 | 27 |
Honors
Anderlecht
- Belgian Pro League: 2012–13, 2013–14, 2016–17
- Belgian Super Cup: 2013, 2014
Individual
- MLS Rookie of the Year: 2010
- RSC Anderlecht Player of the Season: 2015–16, 2016–17
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