Real Salt Lake has concluded its primary 2025 Major League Soccer transfer window by acquiring forward Willy Agada from Sporting Kansas City. In this deal, RSL exchanged $500,000 in General Allocation Money for the Nigerian striker. Should Agada sign an MLS contract extension for the 2026 season, RSL will send an additional $350,000 to Sporting Kansas City. Furthermore, Sporting Kansas City retains a sell-on percentage. Agada, known for his impressive scoring record and versatility, brings valuable experience to Real Salt Lake’s offensive lineup.
Agada's career spans eight professional seasons, during which he scored 65 goals in 212 games. Since joining Sporting KC nearly three years ago, he has contributed 24 goals in 77 matches across all competitions. His journey began in Israel, where he scored 41 goals over four seasons before moving to the United States. Notably, Agada excelled in his debut year with Sporting KC, scoring eight goals and providing two assists in just 12 appearances. This performance earned him accolades as one of the top goal-scorers per game in the league.
A Proven Goal-Scorer Joins the Squad
Willy Agada's addition to Real Salt Lake marks a strategic move to enhance their attacking prowess. With a proven track record of scoring crucial goals in high-pressure situations, Agada is expected to significantly impact the team's performance. His ability to find himself in opportune positions and convert high-quality chances makes him a formidable asset. Over the past three seasons, Agada has consistently demonstrated his knack for scoring in multiple competitions, including earning Golden Boot honors twice with Sporting Kansas City.
Agada's most recent campaign in 2024 exemplifies his peak form. He made 40 appearances across all competitions, leading the team with a total of 12 goals and contributing four assists. During the regular MLS season, he started in 20 out of 32 matches, scoring 10 goals and adding three assists. His contributions were pivotal in several key matches, such as scoring a brace against Portland Timbers and providing decisive performances against FC Dallas and St. Louis. Moreover, his influence extended beyond the regular season, with significant contributions in the Open Cup and Leagues Cup, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable goal-scorer.
An Impressive Journey from Nigeria to Major League Soccer
Prior to his arrival in Major League Soccer, Agada established himself as a prolific scorer in Israel. Born in Bauchi, Nigeria, Agada signed his first professional contract at the age of 18. During his tenure with Hapoel Jerusalem, he rapidly developed into a standout player, scoring eight goals in his inaugural season. The following year, he doubled his goal tally, netting 15 times across 36 appearances in the Israeli second division. This success earned him a loan spell with Hapoel Haifa in the Israeli Premier League, where he continued to impress, scoring six goals in a single season.
Agada's journey includes a return to Hapoel Jerusalem after their promotion to the Premier League, where he led the team with eight goals in the 2021-2022 season. His consistent performances caught the attention of Sporting Kansas City, leading to his transfer in June 2022. Upon joining Sporting KC, Agada quickly adapted to the MLS environment, scoring eight goals and providing two assists in just 12 appearances to close out the 2022 season. His rapid integration into the team and immediate impact underscore his adaptability and skill set, making him a valuable acquisition for Real Salt Lake as they look to strengthen their attacking options.