Ron Patel President at New Mexico United | New Mexico United
New Mexico United has announced the acquisition of midfielder Valentin Noël from Las Vegas Lights FC. The club secured Noël for an undisclosed fee, alongside a 2025 international spot for Gaines and another undisclosed fee for Herbert.
United Sporting Director Itamar Keinan expressed gratitude towards Anthony Herbert and Mckinze Gaines for their contributions to the team. "I want to thank both Anthony Herbert and Mckinze Gaines for their time with the club," Keinan said. He highlighted Herbert's significant role in the club's success during league play and open cup run in 2024, while acknowledging Gaines' memorable impact despite his short tenure. "We wish them both the best of luck with their new club," he added.
Keinan also shared his enthusiasm about Noël joining the team. "I am super excited to welcome Valentin Noël to our club. He’s a creative midfielder that has proven he is one of the best midfielders in the league," Keinan said, emphasizing Noël's potential impact on and off the field.
Valentin Noël hails from Niort, France, where he began his career with Chamois Nortais FC as a youth player. In 2019, he moved to the United States to play collegiate soccer at the University of Pittsburgh. Drafted by Austin FC as the 20th selection in the 2023 MLS Draft, Noël played for Austin FC and Austin FC II before transferring to Las Vegas Lights FC in March 2024. During 2024, he participated in 37 matches across all competitions, scoring 11 goals.
Mckinze Gaines appeared in 18 matches for New Mexico United in 2025, starting eight times, scoring three goals, and earning four assists. Anthony Herbert played in 35 matches over a year and a half with United, starting 26 times and logging impressive defensive statistics including 95 clearances and one goal.
The Black & Yellow will return to action this Saturday against San Antonio FC at Toyota Field as part of the Jägermeister Cup. Their next home match is scheduled for August 16th against Las Vegas Lights FC on "Zozobra Night." Tickets are available online.
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