Biography
Who is Michael Umaña?
Early life and club beginnings
Born in Santa Ana, Costa Rica, Michael Umaña began his football path within his home country. His initial professional experiences involved playing for clubs such as Carmelita and Herediano. By 2005, he sought opportunities abroad and joined the Los Angeles Galaxy in the United States on loan. His time with the Galaxy included winning the U.S. Open Cup and the MLS Cup during that year.
Following his tenure in the United States, he returned to Costa Rica to join Brujas, eventually making his way back to Herediano in 2006. He remained committed to his development as a defender while handling the complexities of the domestic league system.
International career and World Cup success
Michael Umaña established himself as a key figure for the Costa Rica national team, starting from his involvement in the 2004 Summer Olympics. His senior international debut occurred in June 2004 during a friendly match against Nicaragua. Over the course of his career, he earned 103 caps for the national squad.
He participated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, playing in all of the team's group stage matches. Perhaps his most significant international achievement came during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Playing as a central defender alongside teammates like Giancarlo González and Óscar Duarte, he helped the team reach the quarter-finals. During a memorable round of 16 penalty shoot-out against Greece, he successfully converted the decisive fifth kick to secure a victory for his country.
Travels and global football experience
Throughout his career, Michael Umaña played for various clubs across several continents. In 2007, he transferred to Liberia Mia, where he remained for three seasons and secured a 2009 Torneo Verano championship. In 2010, he returned to American soccer with Chivas USA, scoring his first goal for the club during a 2010 Superliga match against Puebla.
After his time in the United States, he moved to Guatemala in 2012 to play for Comunicaciones. Shortly thereafter, he returned to Costa Rica to compete for Saprissa. In 2014, he signed a two-year contract with the Iranian club Persepolis. This move made him the first Costa Rican footballer to play professionally in Iran. He wore the number 4 jersey and debuted for the team during a draw against Padideh in August 2014.
Personal background
Outside of his professional athletic achievements, Michael is the youngest of three brothers. His family background includes his brother Erick, who also pursued a football career by playing in the second division of the Costa Rican league system. These roots in Santa Ana helped shape his early perspective on the sport before he started on his extensive global path.
Birthday and age
Michael Umaña was born on July 16, 1982, which makes Michael 44 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Michael shares the date with 61 other famous people.
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