Major League Soccer purchases Chivas USA

MLS will operate Chivas USA while it looks for a potential buyer. (Derek Leung/Getty Images) Major League Soccer announced Thursday that it has purchased Los

MLS will operate Chivas USA while it looks for a potential buyer. (Derek Leung/Getty Images)

Major League Soccer announced Thursday that it has purchased Los Angeles-based club Chivas USA, and will immediately assume operating the team. Head coach Wilmer Cabrera will remain in his position.

The club will play the 2014 season while MLS tries to find new buyers who will commit to keeping the team in the Los Angeles area. It is expected that the club will be rebranded following the sale.

ONYEWU: Thoughts, emotions and hopes with an eye on USA's World Cup roster

MLS commissioner Don Garber stated that the league's priorities are to open a new stadium for Chivas USA and to develop the team into a strong crosstown rival for LA Galaxy:

“We thank Jorge Vergara and Angelica Fuentes for their significant commitment to Major League Soccer,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said. “Jorge was an early believer in the league and he and Angelica have been great partners in MLS. We collectively agreed that it is best to sell the club to new owners who are committed to securing a new stadium and providing MLS with a strong rival for the LA Galaxy.”