FC Cincinnati have signed midfielder Gerardo ‘Dado’ Valenzuela as a Homegrown Player, the club’s official website has announced.

The 18-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the first team until 2026, with the option of a further two years. The Florida native joined the FC Cincinnati Academy in August 2020 and has impressed during his time in the under-17 and under-19 sides.

‘Dado’ Valenzuela signs three-year deal at MLS Eastern Conference league leaders

Valuenza has become the seventh player from the Cincinnati Youth Academy to sign for the Orange and Blue’s first team since the club’s inception in 2015 and the fifth Homegrown Player in their current squad, joining the likes of midfielder Stiven Jimenez and Guatemalan forward Arquimides Ordonez.

“I’m excited to sign my first professional contract with FC Cincinnati”, said Valenzuela. “It’s been my dream to be a professional ever since I was little, and it feels even better to have achieved this with the support of this great team, my family, and my coaches”.

Valenzuela could make his FC Cincinnati first-team debut when they take on Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park this Saturday and will wear the number 58 for the Orange and Blues.