LANCASTER, Calif. – AV ALTA FC today announced the addition of Lancaster native and former United States Men's National Team midfielder Miguel Ibarra as its inaugural signing, pending league and federation approval. The 34-year-old Antelope Valley product is entering the 14th season of his storied professional career.

Ibarra brings with him a legacy of exceptional talent, professional experience and a deep connection to the community as he returns home to lead AV ALTA FC in its inaugural season. His signing not only marks a historic moment for the club but also serves as a testament to its mission of fostering local talent and uniting the community through the beautiful game.

"I'm incredibly honored to return home and be part of AV ALTA FC's story," said Ibarra. "This community shaped me into the player and person I am today, and I can't wait to give back by representing my hometown on the field. Together, we're going to build something special."

Ibarra spent the past three seasons in USL League One with the Charlotte Independence, totaling 75 appearances and 20 goal contributions across all competitions. The midfielder helped the Independence to three consecutive trips to the USL League One Playoffs and a 2023 USL League One Final appearance.

Before joining the Independence, Ibarra played with USL Championship side San Diego Loyal SC in 2021 and scored two goals in 28 appearances. He made 12 appearances with Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders FC during the 2020 season and appeared in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Honduran side CD Olimpia. 

Ibarra began his MLS tenure with Minnesota United FC during the club's inaugural season in the league in 2017. He appeared in 84 matches and scored 11 goals over three seasons with the Loons. Ibarra began his time with MNUFC in 2012 in the North American Soccer League (NASL). In four seasons, he was named to the NASL Best XI (2013, 2014), NASL Player of the Month (2014) and was awarded the Golden Ball (2014) as the league's best player after the season.

He spent time in Mexico with Club Léon in Liga MX from 2015 to 2017 and scored one goal in eight appearances.

Before turning professional, Ibarra began his collegiate soccer career at Taft College. From 2008 to 2009 Ibarra was named Central Valley Conference MVP. He transferred to UC Irvine in 2010 where he earned Big West Co-Offensive Player of the Year and All-Big West First Team honors. While in college, Ibarra played with USL League Two clubs Lancaster Rattlers and Orange County Blue Star.

Ibarra was called up to the United States Men's National Team on three occasions between 2014 and 2015, participating in friendlies against Honduras, Panama and Mexico.

"Today, we're not just signing a player – we're welcoming home an Antelope Valley fútbol legend," said AV ALTA FC General Manager Nehemias Blanco. "Miguel represents everything this club stands for: hard work, community pride and a commitment to providing opportunities for the Antelope Valley. His journey from the fields of the Antelope Valley to the highest levels of professional soccer is an inspiration to every young footballer in the AV."

"Miguel is a trailblazer who has overcome numerous challenges throughout his career to reach the pinnacle of professional soccer," said AV ALTA FC Head Coach Brian Kleiban. "His dedication and resilience have set a standard for what's possible, not just for players from the Antelope Valley but for anyone chasing their dreams. Bringing him back home is more than a signing - it's a statement. Miguel's experience and leadership will inspire his teammates, uplift our community and set the tone for our inaugural season. We're building something special, and Miguel is at the heart of it."