Orlando City has been practicing for its 2016 campaign now for about a week with several players beginning to trickle back in and get into rhythm. Kaka is back there. Kevin Molino is back on the pitch in limited work now too.
The Lions made a few contract moves this week as practice begins to kick into a little bit of a higher gear.
First, Orlando City re-signed midfielder Darwin Ceren to a four-year deal (two years guaranteed with options on the third and fourth year), according to Paul Tenorio of the Orlando Sentinel. He will get a significant raise thanks to his strong play in his first MLS season.
Ceren had one of the top pass completion percentages and helps short up the defensive midfield for Orlando City. He was voted MLS Latino Player of the Year last year. So a salary bump and extension was certainly in the cards for the surprising newcomer.
With Ceren and Christian Higuita, Orlando City has a strong defensive midfield along with Servando Carrasco and Harrison Heath off the bench.
In addition to inking Ceren, Orlando City added Honduras national defender Devron Garcia.
Garcia has made his mark on the Honduras Under-20 National Team and in the Honduras national league.
The move fills the final international spot for Orlando City on its roster. To acquire another international player, it will have to clear one of the international players on its roster.
The Lions are continuing training camp ahead of a few preseason friendlies in February and the season opener March 6 at the Orlando Citrus Bowl.
