Crew Photo Project: The day Lucas arrived

Media day is one of the “fun events” that sports professionals look forward to when working in the world of athletics and the Columbus Crew put on a great show. Back in February 2020, the Black and Gold rolled out the red carpet for members of the community and public leaders.

The event took place at MAPFRE Stadium inside of the Upper 90 Lounge and upon entering the venue you can feel a sense of optimism from those in attendance.

Not only was the crowd of eager onlookers excited about the anticipated announcement of a sponsor for the Crew’s new training facility, but they were eagerly anticipating the arrival of Lucas Zelarayan.

The 27-year-old joined the Black and Gold on a Designated Player contract and a transfer fee of nearly $8 million according to Massive Report. He would be tasked with filling the very big shoes of a departed Federico Higuain.

“The addition of Lucas Zelarayan is a major step forward for this club because it symbolizes the investment that our owners are willing to make in order to elevate this club to new heights,” said team president and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko.

“Lucas is both an intelligent and skillful player whose ability to score and create goals makes him the type of playmaker we want on our team. He has been a key member of one of the most dominant Liga MX teams in recent years, consistently winning national and international titles with Tigres UANL. We expect Lucas to be both a difference-maker and a leader in our squad.”

The signing was a big deal, with the playmaker saying the now-iconic phrase, “I choose Columbus.”

It was a massive signing for Columbus with many of the Central Ohio media members gathering around the Argentine playmaker.

As Lucas entered the room, he humbly smiled and was surrounded by media who began immediately asking questions to his interpreter. The moment he opened his mouth, Columbus fell in love.