Offseason additions continue to flow in for Orlando City SC, as Jason Kreis and his staff look to build a playoff-worthy team for the 2018 season. On Dec. 27, the Lions added left-back Mohamed El-Munir and midfielder Jose Villarreal. The acquisition of El-Munir is pending the receipt of his ITC and P-1 Visa, and Villarreal was acquired via a trade with the Los Angeles Galaxy that sent Orlando City’s third-round pick in the 2019 Major League Soccer SuperDraft.
“Mohamed brings considerable experience in Europe and on the international stage,” Lions general manager Niki Budalic said, per the team’s press release. “His great pace, ability on the ball and defensive solidity make him a nice fit for our squad. We can’t wati to get him into camp.
“We are pleased to add Jose. He’s an attack-minded player that we feel can contribute in several different roles.”
The 25-year-old El-Munir, who will absorb an Orlando City international spot, last played with Serbian SuperLiga side FK Partizan Belgrade. In 2017, he played in seven matches and helped Partizan win its 27th SuperLiga championship. Before Partizan, El-Munir played for FC Dinamo Minsk in the Belarusian Premier League from 2015 to 2016. There, he played in 10 matches in UEFA Europa League qualifiers and appeared in five matches in the competition itself, scoring twice.
As for his national experience, El-Munir has recorded three international goals in 15 senior-team caps for the Libyan men’s national team. He made his first appearance for Libya on Oct. 14, 2012, in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Algerian men’s national team. El-Munir has played in each of the last two FIFA World Cup qualifying cycles.
At 24 years old, Villarreal will play his seventh MLS season with Orlando City. Since 2012, Villarreal has started 25 of his 68 regular-season appearances, scoring five goals and recording nine assists in 2,354 minutes. He has also appeared in two playoff games in 2012 (his rookie season) and 2013, totaling 21 minutes in both games combined.
For more updates of the Lions, as they prepare for the 2018 season and a potential playoff run, follow Victor Tan on Twitter at @NDR_VictorTan.
