Real Salt Lake acquire Colombian defender Juan José Arias

The 22-year-old center back joins on loan with a purchase option

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Real Salt Lake have acquired defender Juan José Arias on loan from Colombian top-flight side Atlético Nacional, the club announced on Monday. The 22-year-old center back is on loan through July 13 with a purchase option and will occupy a U22 Initiative roster spot.

Why it matters

The addition of Arias strengthens Real Salt Lake's defensive depth and competitive quality as they look to build on their 2025 season. As a young player with experience in the Colombian top flight and Copa Libertadores, Arias represents an opportunity for RSL to develop talent and potentially secure a long-term contributor to the club.

The details

Arias arrives with 1 goal and 2 assists in 74 games since debuting with Atlético Nacional in 2022. The two-time Liga DIMAYOR champion has also featured in the Copa Libertadores. RSL's chief soccer officer Kurt Schmid said Arias' consistent development and maturity have positioned him as an ideal fit for their U22 roster spot.

  • Arias is on loan to RSL through July 13, 2026.
  • RSL's 2026 season begins on February 21 at Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

The players

Juan José Arias

A 22-year-old Colombian center back who joins Real Salt Lake on loan from Atlético Nacional.

Kurt Schmid

The chief soccer officer for Real Salt Lake.

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What they’re saying

“Juan Jose strengthens both the depth and competitive quality of our defensive unit. His consistent development and maturity during his time at Nacional have positioned him as an ideal fit for our U22 roster spot.”

— Kurt Schmid, Chief Soccer Officer, Real Salt Lake (mlssoccer.com)

“I'm very happy to be here in Salt Lake, a beautiful city and a club that has everything I need to develop my potential. I'm very eager to wear this jersey and play for this club. Also, I'd like to extend my greetings to the fans, as I hope to see you all very soon at the stadium!”

— Juan José Arias (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

RSL's 2026 season begins on February 21 at Vancouver Whitecaps FC, where Arias could make his debut for the club.

The takeaway

The acquisition of the young Colombian defender Juan José Arias on loan represents an opportunity for Real Salt Lake to strengthen their backline and develop talent as they look to build on their 2025 campaign.