Oscar Jimenez — a defender synonymous with Louisville City FC’s championship success over the years — has re-signed for the 2023 season, it was announced Monday.
Terms of the deal, which is pending league and federation approval, were not disclosed.
“We believe that Oscar continues to be a great fit for the way that we want to play,” said head coach Danny Cruz. “He is an experienced defender that brings us quality and calmness in possession. He has accomplished a lot in his time at Louisville City, and we are excited to have him back as a leader both on and off the field.”
Jimenez arrived to Louisville for the 2017 season, when the boys in purple won the first of their back-to-back USL Championship titles. He’s gone on to number 32 assists — tied for the club’s all-time lead with Brian Ownby — and ranks fourth on City’s list for minutes played at 12,518.
The outside back led LouCity in assists in both 2017 and 2018. He was also a USL Championship All-League First Team selection in 2019 as the boys in purple won their third Eastern Conference title. Limited by injuries in recent years, Jimenez appeared in 21 games last season en route to LouCity’s fourth Eastern Conference crown.
“I’m really looking forward to being back with LouCity for another year,” Jimenez said. “These past two seasons have been tough for me with injuries, but my hope is that all of that is behind me and I’m able to contribute in a big way next season. I’m hungry to become the best version of myself in this great city I call my home.
“One of the things I pride myself in is being the best that I can be each and every day, and that is one major reason why I’m excited to be back with this club: Everyone has this mindset.”
From Mount Vernon, Wash., the 33-year-old Jimenez played collegiately in his home state before stints with the Tulsa Roughnecks (2015) and Mississippi Brilla (2016). He then earned a contract out of an invitation trial with LouCity, jump starting a highly productive career in purple.
This marks LouCity’s 21st returning player announced to date. Cruz and his staff continue to negotiate toward new contracts for other returners with updates to be provided in due time.
More information on the 2023 USL Championship campaign, such as the schedule, is expected after the new year. For now, season ticket memberships are on sale by visiting LouCity.com/tickets or calling (502) LOU-CITY during regular business hours.
Current 2023 Louisville City FC Roster
Forwards: Jorge Gonzalez, Wilson Harris, Cameron Lancaster, Enoch Mushagalusa, Brian Ownby and Ray Serrano
Midfielders: Paolo DelPiccolo, Tyler Gibson, Carlos Moguel Jr. and Elijah Wynder
Defenders: Wes Charpie, Owen Damm, Amadou Dia, Oscar Jimenez, Manny Perez, Sebastian Sanchez, Ian Soler, Sean Totsch and Josh Wynder
Goalkeepers: Danny Faundez and Kyle Morton
