Phoenix project delights Drogba

LOS ANGELES — Former Cote d’Ivoire and Chelsea star Didier Drogba on Wednesday joined US second-tier team Phoenix Rising as a player and coowner, vowing to help the club ascend into Major League Soccer.

A team statement said the 39-year-old will play for the Rising before switching to an executive role.

“I have taken my time in deciding what I wanted to donextandamreallyhappy and excited about the opportunity at Phoenix Rising FC,” Drogba said.

“After seeing first-hand the potential for expansion of the sport in North America and getting to know the ownership group in Phoenix, I am convinced that I can help it develop their organization on and off the pitch.”

Phoenix plays in the United Soccer League, the de facto second tier of North American club soccer.

Although there is no promotion and relegation between the USL and MLS, Phoenix is vying to become one of the top division’s expansion teams.

Drogba’s arrival in Arizona comes after a turbulent spell with the Montreal Impact, one of three Canadian teams in MLS.

Tension between the player and the club came to a head in October when Drogba refused to be a part of the Impact’s matchday squad after learning he was not in the starting lineup.

USL president Jake Edwards welcomed Drogba’s arrival.

“He will be a great ambassador for our sport, using his experience, talent and vision to benefit fans and fellow players,” Edwards said.

“His invaluable mentorship will guide our young stars on and off the field.”

The Ivorian was linked with Brazilian team Corinthians earlier this year, but turned down a contract worth $120,000 per week.

He is best known for two stints with Chelsea, winning four Premier League titles and the 2012 Champions League in an eight-year stay.

He returned to Stamford Bridge for the 2014-15 season and has also played for Shanghai Shenhua in China and Galatasaray in Turkey.