Kervin Arriaga

A physically imposing presence with a penchant for spectacular long-range goals, Kervin Arriaga was the engine room of the Minnesota United midfield from 2022 through 2024.

The vitals

  • Position: Defensive midfielder
  • Height/weight: 6’3”, 175 lbs
  • Birthdate: Jan. 5, 1998
  • Nationality: Honduras
  • How he joined the Loons: Signed from CD Marathón on Feb. 16, 2022

The story so far

Kervin Arriaga arrived in Minnesota as a highly touted Honduran international, with the club famously trading for his discovery rights to bring him to MLS. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut and establishing himself as a formidable ball-winner. Over 58 appearances for the Loons, Arriaga became known for his aerial dominance and his ability to contribute crucial goals, including a memorable string of strikes during the spring of 2024.

In June 2024, Arriaga made the jump to Europe, joining FK Partizan in Serbia. His stay in Belgrade was short but productive, acting as a springboard for a move to Spain. After a stellar loan stint with Real Zaragoza where he helped steady their midfield, he signed a permanent contract with Levante UD in the summer of 2025. Since moving to Spain, he has established himself as a top-flight starter, consistently ranking among the league leaders in aerial duels won and defensive interceptions.

What he brought to the pitch

Arriaga was a “unicorn” in the Minnesota midfield—a player with the physical stature of a center-back but the technical range of a deep-lying playmaker. His greatest strength was his ability to disrupt opposition attacks through sheer physicality and elite anticipation. He was virtually unbeatable in the air, making him a weapon on both offensive and defensive set pieces.

Offensively, “El Misil” was never afraid to test his luck from distance. His thunderous right foot produced some of the most memorable goals in the club’s recent history. While his aggressive style occasionally led to disciplinary cautions, that same edge gave the Loons a grit and toughness that was often the difference-maker in tight matches. His evolution from a raw talent into a disciplined La Liga midfielder remains one of the club’s proudest developmental success stories.

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