Before meeting fans at Saturday's Crew Fest, the Black & Gold's newest signing Jairo Arrieta caught up with TheCrew.com for his first interview since joining the team.
Cody Sharrett:Welcome to Columbus, Jairo. You've only been here for a few hours, but what are your impressions of the city so far?
Jairo Arrieta (Through translator Ricardo Iribarren): I'm very thankful to be here. I'm really happy and excited to be here. I'm 100-percent sure I can work my way into the team. I haven't been in the city too much, but I like the city. I like the stadium. I like the locker room. We'll see what happens in the future after a couple of days of practicing with the team and knowing the group.
CS: You played with Olman Vargas for a short time at Deportivo Saprissa. Did you reach out to him before signing with the Crew?
JA: We talked about it. I asked him about the city, about the team, about how everything is with the club. Before signing, I called him and we talked about it and I decided to sign with the Crew.
CS: You played against MLS teams in CONCACAF Champions League with Saprissa, what were some of your observations of the league?
JA: It is a good league. It has grown a lot, and the decision for me to come here is because of that issue: the league is getting better and better. I think I can bring something to the league and help the team to be successful in this league.
CS: What are some of the best aspects of your game that will help the Crew once you get on the field?
JA: My best asset is my speed. I am very active and mobile on the field. I try to play close to the goal. I like to score goals. As a forward that's my job, so I will try to keep doing that.
