Angel named one of Ten Sexiest Men
"It doesn't change my perception of life," Angel said. "I'm glad to be on that and it's good always to have the recognition, but it doesn't change anything."
The magazine recognized the 31-year-old native of Medellin, Colombia, who was on a list that included Mexican singer Alejandro Fernandez, reggaeton singer Yandel and Mexican soap opera actor Jose Ron.
"This takes care of David Beckham - because Juan Pablo Angel has arrived! With his ultra-masculine features, a natural tan and a tremendous musculature, the 31-year-old Colombian forward of the New York Red Bulls leaves soccer fans hypnotized," the magazine said.
Angel, whose 16 goals this season is tied for the single-season club record along with fellow Colombian Adolfo Valencia set in 2000, is more concerned about bringing his team to the MLS Cup Playoffs.
"It's nice to have all those recognitions," Angel said. "But I'm most concerned about getting it right on the field."
Angel's teammates found out Thursday after training.
"I'm so privileged standing right next to him in the locker room," Dave van den Bergh said, tounge firmly planted in cheek. "Thank God I can witness first-hand what people are finally seeing for themselves."
Jozy Altidore, though, didn't know until notified by a reporter.
"I had no idea. Really? Nice," he said while laughing. "He's a good-looking brother."
Angel is sure that his teammates won't have any fun with him about the article. Not the case, they say.
"That went around the locker room this morning. I'm sure he'll get some ribbing for that," John Wolyniec said. "Nothing happened yet, but something's going to happen."
"We'll make him pay a little bit for this one," van den Bergh added. "He'll get something."
When asked about the honor bestowed on Angel, Red Bulls boss Bruce Arena had the one-liner of the day.
"He's lucky because he didn't need to compete with me," Arena said. "I'm one of the top 100 sexiest Italian men in central Jersey 55-and-over."
Dylan Butler is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
