Quick Facts
Biography
Cristian da Silva (born 3 February 1971) is a retired Argentine professional soccer player who played in the United States for the MetroStars.
Playing career
Following his collegiate career at Southern Connecticut State University, da Silva joined the New Jersey Stallions of the USISL. In his two years at the club, da Silva was the clubs captain and team's defensive MVP, playing primarily as a defensive midfielder. He was also selected to the league's all-star game.
In 1996 da Silva was signed by newly formed Major League Soccer side Metrostars. He remained with the club through 1998, appearing in 37 league matches, playing primarily as a defensive midfielder or as a central defender.
In 1998 he joined the Staten Island Vipers of the A-League. With the Vipers, da Silva served as team captain. He helped lead the club to the 1999 playoff quarterfinals, as well as helping the Vipers eliminate his former club Metrostars in the 1999 US Open Cup.
Coaching career
Following his playing career da Silva has been a very successful youth coach in New Jersey. In 2007 he was named the head coach of New Jersey City University.
Da Silva stepped down as head coach of the Gothic Knights in July 2009 to accept a position as Head of Player Recruitment for the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer. He had been serving as the head coach of the U14 program with the Red Bulls Academy.