HOUSTON - MLS All-Star defender Wilman Conde says he is in no rush to make a decision on the Chicago Fire’s offer of a contract extension.
“We’ll be asking for God’s help to guide us in making the best decision in this crucial moment in my career,” Conde said after Monday’s All-Star practice at Robertson Stadium. “I’m waiting for everything to get back to normal and with a cool head I’ll make the right decision for me and my family.”
Last week Fire technical director Frank Klopas said the club made a “very good” offer to Conde, whose current contract expires at the end of the current season. Conde's agent echoed Klopas' evaluation when speaking with MLSsoccer.com.
“I don’t have to necessarily wait until the end of the season,” Conde said. “I need to take it easy and think through things well and see what Chicago is proposing and see what others offers are coming from overseas.”
MLSsoccer.com reported last week that the 27-year-old has attracted interest from Argentine club River Plate along with others in Spain, France and Mexico. Conde’s representative is former Fire player Diego Gutierrez.
Conde says that the conversations continue with the foreign suitors but that nothing concrete has materialized.
In addition to being a career central defender, the Colombian has also played spells at midfield for the Fire this season, as the team has struggled with injuries and key absences. The addition of Mexican Designated Player signing Nery Castillo, will boost a squad that still harbors hopes of a playoff push.
“It’s been a bit complicated and difficult season for Chicago,” Conde said. “From last year we lost four key players who left the team and we’ve been carrying many injuries. We’re having a very inconsistent season after three very strong seasons.
“We assume all the responsibility for this season and hope that we can improve in the last 15 games and make it to the playoffs.”
