Orlando City

Welcome, Rafa! Inside Rafael Santos' arrival to Orlando City

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Welcome home, Rafael Santos.

The Brazilian defender, signed by Orlando City in January from Brazilian SĆ©rie A side Cruzeiro, got an up-close look at his new home at Exploria Stadium this weekend, donning purple for the first time.

The 25-year-old Santos joined his new teammates at preseason training last week and will wear No. 3 for the Lions after inking a two-year contract with options for 2025 and 2026.

ā€œRafael is a technically gifted left back, has great touch on the ball, and creates danger in the attacking third with his crossing and set piece abilities,ā€ Orlando City VP of soccer operations and general manager Luiz Muzzi said in Santos' announcement last month.

ā€œHe brings experience from the first division in Brazil and is someone we expect to provide competition in that position within our team.ā€

Here are more of our favorite shots of Santos in the Sunshine Kit from team photographer Mark Thor:

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