ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United announced on Thursday its first returning players for the club’s 2022 USL Championship roster. Forwards Amando Moreno and Cristian Nava, defender Kalen Ryden, and midfielder Chris Wehan will return for the 2022 season, with all four currently under contract through the end of 2023.

“These four players excel on and off the pitch, and will be crucial in our quest to bring a championship to New Mexico,” said New Mexico United Owner and President Peter Trevisani. “They are wonderful representatives of our club and community. We are thrilled to welcome Amando, Cristian, Kalen, and Chris back for the 2022 season and beyond.”

Over the last two seasons (2020-’21), Moreno has seen the pitch in 36 matches for United, starting 31 and scoring 11 goals, while assisting another five. He has been a consistent attacking threat for United, and this year earned his first call-up to the El Salvador Men’s National Team as it competed in FIFA 2022 World Cup Qualifying.

An Albuquerque native, Nava turned professional in August with United as the first product of the NMU Academy to sign a professional contract in the program’s history. He made five appearances in his first pro season aged 17 years old.

Ryden has been a defensive stalwart for United in his two seasons with the club, appearing in 46 matches and starting 45, and serving as one of United’s captains in 2021. This past season, Ryden led United with 107 clearances, 21 blocked shots and 135 duels won.

One of United’s original signings in 2019, Wehan has played two-and-a-half seasons with the club, appearing in 65 matches and earning the title of United’s all-time scoring leader with 28 goals for the Black and Yellow.