CHICAGO (Dec. 13, 2021) – Chicago Fire FC today announced that the Club has signed midfielder Gastón Giménez to a new contract as a Designated Player. Giménez will be under contract with the Fire through the 2023 season and will occupy an international roster slot.
“Gastón is highly motivated to help lead the Fire back into the playoffs,” said Sporting Director Georg Heitz. “He will benefit from a new start under Ezra Hendrickson and will partner with Federico Navarro to form one of the best and hardest working midfields in MLS next season. We have high expectations for Gastón and are confident that he will deliver for the Club.”
Giménez, 30, was originally acquired by the Club via transfer from Superliga Argentina side Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield on Feb. 24, 2020. He made 43 appearances (39 starts) in his first two seasons with the Fire. In 2021, Giménez ranked second on the team in tackles (61), counter-pressures (86) and total ball recoveries (243). Additionally, he was just one of five defensive midfielders in the league to record at least 30 shots, 200 ball recoveries and 120 tackles and interceptions throughout the season.
“I’m very grateful and excited to continue representing the Chicago Fire,” said Giménez. “The Club has shown their confidence in me, and it is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I look forward to giving the best version of myself for our fans and the city of Chicago.”
Prior to joining the Fire, Giménez made 235 appearances across all competitions while playing in Argentina. In addition to Vélez Sarsfield, he spent time with Estudiantes, Godoy Cruz, Atlético Tucumán and Club Almirante Brown during a 10-year stretch.
Internationally, Giménez earned two caps (one start) for the Argentina National Team in 2018. Shortly after joining the Fire, the midfielder completed a one-time change of association through FIFA to join the Paraguay National Team and has since made nine appearances (eight starts) in the Copa America and 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying.
The Fire will kick off its 25th season in MLS on Saturday, Feb. 26, at Inter Miami CF (5:00 p.m. CT), before playing its 2022 home opener on Saturday, March 5 against Orlando City SC at Soldier Field. Scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. CT, the match against Orlando City will mark the earliest home opener in Club history.
Season tickets for the 2022 campaign are currently available for purchase here. The complete 2022 regular season schedule will be announced at a later date.
Transaction: Chicago Fire FC sign midfielder Gastón Giménez to a Designated Player contract through the 2023 season.
