ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United added some more hometown flavor to its inaugural roster on Thursday as the club announced the signing of former University of New Mexico midfielder Chris Wehan for the 2019 USL Championship season, pending league and federation approval.

The Orange, California native returns to New Mexico from Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earthquakes, where he made six appearances before spending time on loan with the club’s Championship affiliate Reno 1868 FC. Last season, Wehan made 14 appearances for Reno across the regular season and USL Cup Playoffs, recording four goals and three assists during his second stint with the club.

In 2017, Wehan scored eight goals and added 12 assists over 29 regular-season appearances for Reno, earning USL Assist Champion, USL First Team All-League and USL Rookie of the Year honors for his superb season.

“Chris is a cerebral player who can see passes and dangerous opportunities that other players can't. His ability to create in the final third is special,” said New Mexico Head Coach Lesesne. “He is someone that truly understands what soccer means to this state and in his third professional season I believe he is primed to have his best year yet for our club.”

Wehan played four collegiate seasons at University of New Mexico, scoring 31 goals and picking up First Team All-Conference USA honors amongst other academic and athletic achievements. During his time at UNM, he also played in USL League Two with the Seattle Sounders U-23s and OC Blues Strikers.

“I am extremely excited to join New Mexico United,” said Wehan. “The state of New Mexico means so much to me after spending four and a half years at UNM. I am anxious to join this group of players, as I know they have been working extremely hard. I feel honored to be joining this historic group of players and staff members that are paving history in New Mexico.”