Tejeda signed a four-year deal with Evian, currently last in France’s top league after two matches. The curly-haired defensive midfielder was one of the breakout stars of Costa Rica’s surprising World Cup run to the quarterfinals in Brazil. The 22-year-old started all five matches, and held in check top players like Italy’s Andrea Pirlo during the tournament.
After the World Cup, Tejeda was linked to several English Premier League clubs. He even flew to England first before heading to France this week to try to reach a last-minute deal. He was rumored to be close to signing with Premier League side Swansea, but ultimately Tejeda will try to give a boost to his new French club.
Tejeda was one of two regular starters for Costa Rica’s national team at the World Cup who still played professionally in his homeland. However, Tejeda and defender Michael Umaña are both now headed overseas. Umaña signed a two-year deal with Iran’s Persepolis earlier this week.
Several more La Sele starters and frequently used subs earned contracts with new teams after the World Cup, including Keylor Navas (Spain’s Real Madrid), Randall “Chiqui” Brenes, (Norway’s Sandnes Ulf), José Miguel Cubero (England’s Blackpool) and Cristian Gamboa (England’s West Brom).
Striker Joel Campbell also looks like he’ll finally get his chance with England powerhouse Arsenal after spending the last three seasons on loan. Team captain Bryan Ruiz is currently in negotiations with German side Werder Bremen, according to Sky Sports.
The AFP contributed to this story.
