New York Red Bulls sign Michael Amir Murillo on one-year loan

The New York Red Bulls have officially confirmed the signing of 21-year-old Panama international Michael Amir Murillo.

In the club's announcement, the player is described as a right back - which perhaps settles any initial doubt over the role he is expected to play at RBNY.

The official release is also notable for containing perhaps the first public step toward filling the now-vacant sporting director position at RBNY. Denis Hamlett is quoted, though he is still an assistant coach for the Red Bulls per the club's statement. He describes a role in the transfer that is similar to the one Ali Curtis used to describe when he was routinely providing comments to official club announcements.

"I went down to see Michael play in person with our Head Scout Rob Elliot and we were impressed," said Red Bulls first assistant Denis Hamlett. "After watching him play and speaking with him, we believe that Michael fits our club philosophy and we are glad to add him to our team for 2017." ​​

Murillo seems pleased to have completed the transfer:

Happy boy! #RBNY pic.twitter.com/D16UoX2sfk

— Ainslie Binder (@ainslieann) February 18, 2017

The one-year loan has been reported to include an option to buy.

Now the only question is whether we should call him Amir - as he seems to prefer based on his social media presence - or Michael, as RBNY staff (per the announcement of his transfer)refer to him, presumably after having met and spoken to him several times.

Which is it, Mr. Murillo: Amir or Michael? Also, welcome to RBNY. Looking forward to seeing you play.