Loudoun United release Ethiopian midfielder Surafel Daganachew

Loudoun United has released Ethiopian international Surafel Daganachew after nearly two years. The Virginia-based USL championship side is a feeder club of MLS outfit DC United.

Dagnachew, 28, signed for Loudoun United after his successful stay at the Ethiopian Premier League side Fasil Kenema in 2024.

The midfielder had a rough start at the club due to work permit issues and injuries. He made his debut in March 2025 and provided an assist in the US. Open Cup. His move to the United States had hopes for opening the door for other Ethiopian players, but his time at Loudoun ended after the club opted not to renew his contract.

Surafel Daganachew lost his place at the Ethiopian national side following his move to Loudoun United. He was called up for the DC United friendly in August but pulled out of the squad due to injury.

Surafel Daganachew and DC United Part Ways

The 2019 Ethiopian Premier League Most Valuable Player’s next move is not yet known. Several Ethiopian sides will keep an eye on his situation, while staying at another US side could also be an option.

Daganachew started off his career at Adama Ketema but got more attention after guiding Fasil Kenema to their first-ever Ethiopian Premier League title and the 2019 Ethiopian Cup glory. He was a key member of the national side when Ethiopia qualified for the 2021 African Cup of Nations in Cameroon, as he scored a memorable free kick against the Ivory Coast in a 2-1 win in Bahir Dar.