D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid completed his move to FC Midtjylland on Wednesday, joining the Danish side on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with the Black-and-Red.
The first Homegrown player in United history, Hamid leaves D.C. after eight strong seasons over which he set club records in starts (184), minutes (16,269), wins (66), saves (642) and shutouts (49). He won MLS Goalkeeper of the Year honors in 2014 and was also nominated as an MLS All-Star and selected to the MLS Best XI.
“Bill represents the soccer dream in the United States. He’s a local player who grew up supporting the club and was recruited into our academy because of his potential,” said United general manager and VP of Soccer Operations Dave Kasper in a club release. “His tireless work ethic earned him D.C. United’s first Homegrown contract and he’s been a fixture for the club ever since.
“We wish Bill the best of luck in this next chapter as he continues to grow and push for a starting spot on the US national team. We thank him for all he’s given to our organization and our fans during his time in D.C.”
The 26-year-old Hamid has three USMNT caps to date and was a member of the squad that won the 2017 Gold Cup. With previous starter Michael Falkesgaard expected to leave Midtjylland, Hamid will compete with Jesper Hansen for the No. 1 role upon arrival at his new club. He’ll also be reunited with former United midfielder and Finnish international Markus Halsti.
“Bill Hamid is a very athletic goalkeeper and he has a huge physique. He is fast on the feet and good in the field. He fills a lot in the field because of both his size and physique, but also because of his great winning mentality and verbal presence,” Midtjylland goalkeeper coach Nikolai Pold said in a club release. “So we look forward to seeing what he can contribute.”
Midtjylland currently sit in first place in the Danish Superliga and took part in the early stages of the UEFA Europa League, where they bowed out to Cyprus’ Apollon Limassol in the playoff round.
