Colorado Rapids Save Millions Signing Israeli Forward Said Abu Farhi Using MLS Salary Rule

Israeli forward Said Abu Farhi has agreed to terms with the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer (MLS), potentially making his upcoming match for Maccabi Tel Aviv his last. The Rapids are excited about acquiring the 20-year-old striker, not only for his talent but also because of a unique MLS salary rule that allows the club to save significant money. Under MLS regulations, teams can sign designated players regardless of transfer fees, but players under 22 years old do not count fully against the salary cap. Although Abu Farhi commands a high salary, he is counted as earning only $150,000 against the cap due to his age. This enables the Rapids to benefit from signing a high-profile player while staying under the league's strict salary limits. The club is estimated to save approximately $2.1 million annually on salary cap space with this arrangement. Abu Farhi will be the Rapids' second-largest signing ever, following 21-year-old Paxton Aaronson, who was acquired under similar considerations.