Matias Alejandro Pourrain, a semi-professional soccer player for Miami United, was detained by ICE agents at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on August 6.
The 34-year-old Argentine player was en-route to a knockout playoff match in Los Angeles when federal agents stopped, questioned, and arrested him. Pourrain had cleared Transportation Security Administration screening when three individuals approached him, a spokesperson for Miami United told the Miami Herald.
Pourrain, who competes in the United Premier Soccer League and coaches in the Miami United academy, is currently being held in Glades County Detention center, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Visa overstay allegations and defense claims
Department of Homeland Security officials claim Pourrain entered the country legally on November 12, 2019, on a six-month visa, but stayed past May 11, 2020 "in violation of our nation's laws." In a statement, the department said, "Pourrain will remain in ICE custody pending his removal proceedings and will receive full due process," and described his being in detention "a choice."
Miami United and Pourrain's former team, Club de Lyon, strongly denied the claims. Club de Lyon, the club Pourrain played for before joining Miami United, defended the player in a social media post, writing, "He originally entered the United States legally with a visa. He has had a pending asylum case for years, a valid work permit, a Florida ID, and no criminal record."
"During all these years, Matías has worked, paid his taxes, maintained his documentation, and built a life and a community here," the club wrote.
Club statement and legal action
Miami United said in a statement that the club was "deeply shocked" by the detention of Pourrain, who also coaches in the Miami United academy, and that they have supported the player and his family along the way. "We are cooperating with all parties involved and doing everything within our ability to help resolve this situation in the best possible way," the club's statement read.
"Matias is not only an exceptional footballer, but an even better person and an important part of the Miami United family," the club added. "His teammates, coaches, staff and the entire club stand firmly behind him and his family." The Daily Mail has also contacted Miami United for further comment on this matter.
Regina de Moraes, Pourrain's attorney, told the Miami New Times she has filed a motion for bond and requested a hearing date.
