ORLANDO, Fla. – March 3, 2016 – Orlando City SC has re-signed standout defender Rafael Ramos to a two-year deal with a two-year option contract. Per league and club policy, additional terms of the agreement are not being disclosed.
“We are delighted to keep Rafa in our family for the upcoming seasons,” said Orlando City SC President and Founder Phil Rawlins. “He has shown plenty of talent and potential for growth, and has demonstrated his commitment to continuing his development as a footballer. We are very excited and look forward to having him on the team.”
The Portuguese fullback started in all but one of his 25 Major League Soccer appearances, contributing to six clean-sheets to the Lions’ backline. The 21 year-old set the tone early for a successful season being named to the MLS Team of the Week for his shutout performance over the Houston Dynamo in just the second match of the 2015 season, giving Orlando City a 1-0 victory. Ramos, who continued to flourish throughout his MLS debut, also contributed on the final third, garnering assists against the L.A. Galaxy and the New England Revolution.
One of the most promising young talents in MLS, the 5-foot-7 right back joined Orlando City from affiliate club SL Benfica during the 2014 United Soccer League (USL) season. Prior to his arrival to Central Florida, Ramos started five games for the Portuguese side, helping the U19s reach the final of the 2013-14 UEFA Youth League.
On the international level, Ramos has been called-up for the Portugal U-20s Men’s National Team on several occasions.
