For MetroStars head coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, trying to rebuild his MLS team partly by bringing in Brazilian players, the third time may be the charm. Previous acquisitions Guido and Joao Luiz did little to stabilize the MetroStars’ leaky defense before suffering injuries, but the signing of three-time World Cup defender Branco should have a more dramatic effect. “I have known Branco since he is 19 years old and I believe he will be a great player for the MetroStars and the league,” said Parreira at a press conference July 20. “His experience will go a long way in helping the young American players and the quality of his play will help everyone. The fans will be getting a chance to see one of Brazil’s truly great players.” The 33-year-old defender has played 78 times for Brazil, and will likely slide in at sweeper. His new teammates vividly displayed their weakness in central defense shortly after his press conference by being torn apart 4-0 by the Los Angeles Galaxy. “It’s a new challenge for me,” said Branco at the press conference. “I have played in many different leagues and have gained valuable experience along the way. “I believe this will be another great experience and I am looking to make the most of it.” League deputy commissioner Sunil Gulati said Branco has been signed to replace Guido and Joao Luiz under a league rule allowing the replacement of marquee players suffering season-ending injuries, and denied the league is kowtowing to the needs of a large-market team lumbering along in last place. “I hear from five teams every Monday, the teams that lost over the weekend,” said Gulati. “[The MetroStars] have lost two of their allocated players to season-ending injuries, and another of their allocated players [Tab Ramos] has played two [league] games.” The rule does not apply in a situation like that of New England goalkeeper Walter Zenga, since he is scheduled to return in late August or early September. Gulati said the Metros receive some salary-cap relief with their injured players and Branco’s compensation thus does not put the team over the salary cap. Team general manager Charlie Stillitano said, “This is a fantastic addition to our club. With Roberto Donadoni and now Branco, we have two of the great players in the world playing for the MetroStars.” by Soccer America Senior Editor Ridge Mahoney