Looking good in purple, @cmueller1662. #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/fGDfKmmv9X
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) January 19, 2018
In the 2018 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, Orlando City SC only had one pick: the sixth-overall choice.
The Lions, one of the four worst goal-scoring teams in 2017, were attacking-minded in their decision, drafting forward/attacking midfielder Chris Mueller from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
“Wow. First and foremost, I want to thank the MLS and Orlando City for giving me the opportunity,” Mueller said after being drafted, per City’s Twitter feed. “I’m so excited to get started and can’t wait to go into a new city and explore, and I’m just beyond thankful.”
Welcome to the club, Chris! #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/fG32tYD8is
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) January 19, 2018
Mueller joins a host of other midfield offensive threats that City have acquired this offseason, including former New York Red Bulls midfielder Sacha Kljestan. The Schaumburg, Illinois, native, is coming off one of the most impressive college-soccer seasons of 2017, as he led the nation in assists with 20.
Because he led the Big Ten Conference in assists per game (0.95), shots (72), shots on goal (30) and points (38) last season, the 21-year-old garnered Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and All-Big Ten First Team honors, too.
Forever a Badger… but now he’s a pro!
Congratulations Chris! @cmueller1662 was drafted at #6 by @OrlandoCitySC !!#SuperDraft #Badgers pic.twitter.com/wGmzs3K9sT
— Wisconsin Soccer (@BadgerMSoccer) January 19, 2018
At Wisconsin, Mueller tallied 22 goals and 35 assists, just four behind Wisconsin’s all-time leader in assists, Kevin Kullby. He started all 21 of his senior-season matches, scoring a career-high 9 goals.
For more on the Lions, as they prepare to start preseason camp on Monday, follow Victor Tan on Twitter at @NDR_VictorTan.
To contact Victor, you can email him at vtan@newdayreview.com.
