Rafael Ramos Thrilled to Be Back with First Team

There was a lot to be happy about in Orlando City’s 2-0 win over D.C United. Amongst them was the return of Rafael Ramos.

Ramos has been with Orlando City since 2014, but his young career has been plagued by injuries. The 22-year-old has unfortunately suffered hamstring problems, which limited him to just 12 appearances last season and none so far this year. 

But on Wednesday night, Ramos was healthy enough to appear in the Jason Kreis’s 18-player roster for the match. He didn’t make an appearance, but he’s approaching that time. Now that he’s getting back into full training and matches, Ramos will have to compete for a spot in the lineup. He’s ready to make his mark. 

“It was just great to be closer to the action, be down there with the guys. It’s always an amazing time,” Ramos said after the match against D.C. “And for the first time for me in that stadium this year, it was special for me.”

For Ramos, the goal now is to stay healthy and prove to his coach that he is worthy of being on the pitch. Ramos played a few matches for Kreis at the end of last season, but the Orlando City veteran will still have to prove he can adopt the Lions new identity.

But the most important thing for Ramos is to remain healthy. And hopefully the pieces fall into place. He’ll do what needs to be done to fight for that spot on the roster.

“I just hope I don’t get back to that treatment room again. It’s great to finally be there,” Ramos said. “Of course, I want to be closer to the action and play. But I have to wait for my opportunity.”