Official: Revolution acquire left back Gabriel Somi

On Friday, the Revolution made an announcement that shocked few pundits: the team has acquired left back Gabriel Somi. Previously of Swedish side Östersunds FK, Somi joined the Revolution on a free transfer.

Rumors of Somi’s signing date back to mid-December, when Swedish outlet Expressen GT linked the 26-year-old defender to the Revolution. As time passed, it became increasingly clear that Somi would eventually land in Foxboro. And that time has come.

Somi made 18 appearances across all competitions, including 12 starts, with Östersunds last season. Though a natural defender, he flashed the ability to join the attack throughout his career with Allsvenskan clubs. Since 2012, Somi has scored six goals and tallied 12 assists. His two-way skill set could prove key as he battles with veteran defender Chris Tierney for regular starts.

“We are very pleased to add a versatile player in Gabriel who has the ability to help contribute at both ends of the field,” Revs General Manager Michael Burns said. “We look forward to seeing the impact he will have on the field in 2018 and beyond.”

Born in Sweden, Somi actually represents Syria on the national stage. He earned his first international call-up for a pair of World Cup qualifiers on Oct. 5 and Oct. 10, 2017.

The 26-year-old defender will bring that experience—and six years of action in Sweden’s top flight—to the Revolution next season.