LAFC selects Joao Moutinho with first overall pick in MLS SuperDraft
LAFC had a busy Friday.
The club added three new players in the first MLS SuperDraft in LAFC history, selecting Joao Moutinho from the University of Akron with the first overall pick.
Tristan Blackmon from The University of the Pacific with taken with the third selection. LAFC acquired the third pick from D.C. United in exchange for $100,000 of General Allocated Money (GAM) and $100,000 of Targeted Allocation Money (TAM). The Club selected midfielder Pol Calvet Planellas from the University of Pittsburgh with the 24th pick in the second round.
"Today was a special day for our Club," said LAFC Head Coach Bob Bradley in a statement. "I think we got some young guys that are excited to be in L.A. and have a lot of talent. For me, it feels great that we are getting closer and closer to getting on the field, starting the season and eventually getting into our Banc of California Stadium."
https://twitter.com/LAFC/status/954529830665637888
In his one season at the University of Akron, Moutinho started all 24 games, scoring three goals and registering five assists in 2,109 minutes.
"We felt Joao was the top player in the draft," LAFC General Manager and Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations John Thorrington said. "He's an intelligent player with great ability and is a great fit for the type of team we are building. We are proud to welcome Joao to the club as the first SuperDraft selection in LAFC history."
"Going to L.A. and to LAFC to play under Bob Bradley, I just can't wait to get started," said Moutinho. "This is a huge honor, I don't even know how to put it into words."
