Former Rapids Homegrown Sam Vines Breaks Leg, Will Miss World Cup

The only former Colorado Rapids players likely to go to the World Cup will be Kellyn Acosta for the United States and Mark-Anthony Kaye of Canada. Earlier today, Sam Vines announced via Instagram that he has broken his leg.

“Life is full of ups and downs. Unfortunately yesterday I broke my tibia and and had to get surgery. The operation went well and I should be back in 3-4 months. Upset I missed the chance to be in the World Cup but I will be supporting the boys until the end. Thank you for all the support. I’ll be back stronger,” Vines wrote.

Vines had played in 15 games for Royal Antwerp in all competitions. He’d started regularly and been more impressive. Vines was called up for the September international window and played 90 minutes in a 2-0 loss to Japan.

With a return in February, he could work his way back into fitness as The Reds are making a run in the Jupiler Pro League. At time of publishing, the are second in the table, 10 points behind Genk.

General consensus amongst national team pundits was that Vines was 50/50 or slightly on the outside looking in to be the backup left back position. Joe Scally could now be preferred player to play behind Antonee “Jedi” Robinson. Gregg Berhalter could also choose a third right back with Sergiño Dest able to play on both sides of the back four.

Vines was born in Colorado Springs, CO. A Rapids academy product, he went on loan to Charlotte Independence. He signed a Homegrown contract in 2018 and was sold to Antwerp in 2021 after winning the Gold Cup. He made 53 appearances in four season, recording two goals and four assists.