ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City Soccer Club announced today that Adama Mbengue, star midfielder for the Orlando City U23s, has been promoted to the pro roster, pending USSF approval. Mbengue is the first player to be promoted from the U23s to the pro side.
“We’re delighted that he’s with us,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “He’ll be a huge boost to our squad as we push towards the end of the season and the playoffs. Adama is someone I feel is a game-changer. He’s a little different than anyone we have in the squad. I’m very pleased with his development thus far, and very excited about his future with us.”
Mbengue was first scouted by Orlando City some two years ago in Senegal, where he was playing with Orlando City Academy Affiliate, Sport Galaxy, in Dakar. He came to the club in early 2012 where he featured in pre-season with the team. He was especially impressive during the Disney Pro Soccer Classic. Mbengue registered two goals during the preseason, scoring against UCF and USF in the final two games.
He joins the pro side of Orlando City after playing 10 matches with the Under 23s squad, where he has been developing his game and fitness under U23 Coach, Joe Avallone. In his 584 minutes this season he has been one of the main offensive engines for the U23’s.
The promotion of Mbengue to the pro team is a watershed moment in Orlando City’s short history. The goal of having our U23 team is to give players, like Mbengue, an environment to develop while remaining under the watchful eye of Adrian Heath and his staff. Mbengue is the first of hopefully many players that come through the Orlando City system of player development and become significant contributors at the pro level.
Transaction:
Orlando City (USL PRO) promotes Midfielder Adama Mbengue
Adama Mbengue #3
Position: Midfielder
Born: 12/1/1993
Last Club: Orlando City U23s (PDL)
