Bangor confirm signing of Ecuador youth international after Southampton and Los Angeles spells
Bangor have announced the signing of former Southampton and Los Angeles FC defender Jeremi Rodriguez as Lee Feeney continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season. Rodriguez came through the youth ranks of Spanish club Las Palmas before joining Southampton’s academy in 2020, featuring for the Saints’ U18 and U21 teams during his time at St Mary’s.
The 22-year-old sealed a transfer to MLS outfit LAFC in 2023 and made six league appearances for their reserve side in MLS Next Pro. Following spells in Spain with Telde and UD San Fernando, who Rodriguez represented in the Copa Del Rey last season, the Ecuador U20 international has now joined the Seasiders as they look to build on their solid return to the top flight.
Speaking to the News Letter earlier this week, Feeney opened up on his willingness to look outside of the Irish League for talent with Rodriguez joining teenage Scottish striker Lucas McRoberts as a new Bangor recruit. "It (Irish League market) really is (inflated) so we have tried to reach out to other countries to get value for money,” said Feeney.
What happened?
Rodriguez has joined Bangor from Los Angeles FC after spells with Southampton and Spanish clubs.
Why it matters for Southampton
The Saints have lost a talented young defender to Bangor, but the club will be looking to the future with a strong academy and youth setup.
What comes next?
Rodriguez will be looking to make an impact at Bangor and help the club push for a top-half finish in the Premiership.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 4th in Championship, 80 pts, 22W-14D-10L from 46 games, recent form WDWDD. Goals this season: 82 scored, 56 conceded (+26 goal difference). Title race: 15 points behind leaders Coventry. Next fixture: vs Wrexham (at home, 2027-02-20) (7th in the table).
