Signed in late March, Daniel Ríos is the newest face for the 5-Stripes. Acquired on from Liga MX Side CD Guadalajara (Chivas), Ríos has nearly 200 professional appearances under his belt. Prior to his move to Liga MX, Ríos played in MLS for Nashville SC and Charlotte FC.
Coming off a goal against the Philadelphia Union on Sunday, we sat down with Ríos and asked him 17 questions for the 17s to get to know him better.
Describe yourself in three words?
Passionate, jovial, and hard-working.
Favorite pre-game music choice?
An artist from Mexico named Xavi. It is that kind of music where they sing, and you feel it. It gets into my skin and love it before the game.
Where are you from, and what does it mean to you?
I am from Mexico. I am very patriotic; I love my country. I love Mexican food, all kinds of Mexican food. I just love the people and the culture.
Only one person can fly to Atlanta to see you play, who are you choosing?
That’s hard. It is between my mom and my dad. I will say my dad, because he has not been able to watch me play a lot.
First soccer memory?
I remember my first game; I was picking up flowers and grass instead of playing. I was probably like seven or eight years old.
How would you describe your playing style?
I am a team player. I love to score goal and create movement not only for myself but for my teammates. I am very competitive, and I hate to lose.
Any pre-game superstitions and or rituals?
Not really. Right now, I just like to feel good, have a good vibe before the game.
You are stuck on an island, what are three things you would take?
A soccer ball, of course. A lighter, and sunscreen.
If you were not playing soccer, what would be doing?
I would be a businessman. I love finance and numbers.
Favorite soccer player growing up?
Cristiano Ronaldo. He is my idol. Every place he goes, I am a big fan of that team. He has been my example and my motivation since I was young, and he still is.
Favorite moment of your career so far?
When I scored four goals against Philadelphia [Union] two years ago, it was a good moment in my career. Scoring four goals is not easy, and it is one of those moments that some players never achieve in their career, or they only do it once.
Best piece of advice you have ever received?
Nothing is forever; any circumstance good or bad is only in the moment. Time is always your ally. You just have to wait till the problem passes.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Read mind and be able to convince people to do good things. I love to take care of the environment. I would like to be able to convince some people to do good things for the planet.
Dream vacation spot?
The Maldives.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
I want to go on a road trip.
Favorite goal you have scored?
When I was with Nashville, and it was against Dallas. I faked him twice and he ended up on ground. I shot across the goal, and it was a beautiful goal.
What is something you want the 17s to know about you?
I am here to give everything to help the team win the [MLS] championship. I have my personal goals, which is helping the team to win games and scoring goals. I will do everything in my control to do that. And try to give a lot of joy to the fans. Because what I felt on Sunday, and I have been watching for the last couple of weeks - they are amazing. They deserve all the joy we can bring them.
