CARSON, Calif. – Sacramento Republic FC’s all-time leader in appearances and minutes, Emrah Klimenta, was announced on Tuesday as the newest member of the LA Galaxy, with the Montenegro international making the move to Major League Soccer after a standout four seasons in California’s capital.

“Emrah has shown very well for himself in Sacramento and he’s deserving of this opportunity in MLS,” said Galaxy Head Coach Sigi Schmid. “He will be a valuable and versatile defender in our backline. We are very excited to welcome Emrah into our club.”

The 26-year-old was signed by Republic FC ahead of its inaugural season in 2014, and helped lead Sacramento to its first USL Cup at the end of that season as he made 29 appearances across the regular season and playoffs. Klimenta made 98 appearances in the USL regular season and postseason over four seasons, missing out on passing the century mark due to a torn ACL in the 2016 season.

Klimenta rebounded strongly from that setback, making 28 appearances in the regular season and USL Cup Playoffs in 2017, while also representing Montenegro in qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.