Diego Valeri retiring with Portland Timbers, joins 'Ring of Honor'

Former longtime Portland Timbers FC captain Diego Valeri is back in the Rose City, signing a one-day contract with the team so he can officially retire as a Timber.

Known as “El Maestro,” midfielder Valeri joined the team in 2013 and spent nine seasons with Portland, becoming the most decorated player in Timbers club history.

“When I first came to Portland, the most important thing to me was to honor the club’s history and bring the highest prestige to the Timbers,” Valeri shared. “Today, returning to retire a Portland Timber, I feel fulfilled about my journey and adventure with the club and am so thankful for the love the city gave to me.”

Diego left the Timbers after the 2021 season to return to Argentina for Club Atlético Lanús.

Valeri will be honored Saturday during the Timbers’ match against Columbus Crew SC, both beforehand and at halftime.

There will be a special Timbers Ring of Honor induction ceremony, where Valeri will become its sixth member – joining the ranks of club greats like Clive Charles, John Bain, Jimmy Conway, Mick Hoban and Timber Jim.

“It is only fitting that Diego Valeri will officially retire a Portland Timber,” said owner Merritt Paulson. “He gave so much to our club and we can never give back what he has given us. It will be amazing for fans to have the opportunity to recognize Diego publicly Saturday when we induct him into the Ring of Honor.”