Bienve Marañon leaves United Clark

Bienve Marañon will be leaving United Clark after seven seasons. PFL (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—United Clark has let go of its primary offensive weapon.

The reigning PFL champion announced on Wednesday night that Bienve Marañon will be leaving the club after seven seasons dating back to its Ceres Negros days.

Marañon himself confirmed the development later in the night.

"It’s time to move forward and step up in my career as a professional football player. I will leave the country where I found the happiness and the team United Clark Football Club that made me a better player and better person," said Marañon, who last played for the club during the AFC Champions League group stages last year.

United Clark begged off from joining the Copa Paulino Alcantara later this year following the cancellation of the PFL season.

The 35-year-old Marañon was tight-lipped about where he will play next, but he hinted that his new club is among the best in Asia.

"I’m pending of my travel pass to travel to my next destination. I will leave the Philippines to go to the best club of Asia and I will do it. Can’t wait to travel and start training with them," Marañon added.

Meanwhile, United Clark said that it is now looking at the positives despite losing its prolific striker and co-captain.

"While it's sad to see him leave at this time, it opens great opportunities for UCFC in preparation for the 2022 season," the club said. "UCFC would like to congratulate Bienve Maranon on his well-deserved career move and thank him for his services to the club as decorated player and co-captain."

After spending some time in the minor leagues of Spain, Marañon joined the then Ceres Negros side in 2015.

He helped the club win five top-tier titles, the 2015 UFL title and the PFL four-peat from 2017-2020.

Marañon was also with United Clark when it won the 2019 Copa Paulino Alcantara title.

The Spanish-born Marañon recently joined the Azkals after he completed his naturalization process in the AFF Suzuki Cup, ending up as the joint top scorer with four goals.

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