COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A Columbus Crew winger will be leaving the club after just one season and heading back to South America.
The club confirmed the permanent transfer of Marino Hinestroza, who played in 16 MLS games and scored twice for the Crew in 2024. The 22-year-old from Cali, Colombia was sold by Columbus to Atletico Nacional, one of the most decorated clubs in the country.
A percentage of future transfer fees for Hinestroza will be retained by Columbus.
It has been a relatively quiet offseason in central Ohio with Hinestroza’s exit and the signing of ex-Montreal midfielder Lassi Lappalainen being among the most notable roster changes. Last season’s core remains with the likes of striker Cucho Hernandez, defender Steven Moreira, midfielder Darlington Nagbe, winger Diego Rossi, and goalkeeper Patrick Schulte all coming back.
The Black & Gold begin the 2025 MLS season on Feb. 22 when they host the Chicago Fire at 7:30 p.m. from Lower.com Field. Columbus will also play in the CONCACAF Champions Cup again, a tournament they finished as runners-up in last season. The Crew will play on the road at Los Angeles FC or the Colorado Rapids in the first leg of the Champions Cup round of 16 on Mar. 4.