Orlando City SC has waived midfielder Matías Pérez García, opening an international roster spot that will be occupied by Orlando City B defender Léo Pereira.
Pérez García’s contract was set to expire on June 30 after City’s match at Real Salt Lake. Waiving Pérez García’s contract allows Orlando City to add Pereira to the First Team roster in his place ahead of the match.
“We tried our best to reach an agreement with Matías but unfortunately we weren’t able to,” Lions general manager Niki Budalic said. “I want to thank Matías for his contributions to our Club. He is a tremendous teammate and person. We wish him the best of luck moving forward.”
Pereira, who was acquired on loan from Orlando City B on April 14, rejoins City’s First Team roster after being returned to OCB ahead of last week’s matches in Seattle and Chicago to open an international roster spot for Richie Laryea, who made his MLS debut in Chicago. Pereira and Laryea are on loan with Right of Recall to OCB for the season, permitting free movement between the two rosters in compliance with MLS roster regulations.
Pereira, who has started three MLS matches with Orlando City this season, was originally acquired by OCB on March 14 on loan from Clube Atlético Paranaense, the Club’s official Brazilian partner. Pereira was the first player moved between the two clubs since the partnership was announced in November 2016.
Pérez García, 32, joined City in August 2016 when he was acquired from San Jose Earthquakes in exchange for Darwin Cerén. Pérez García appeared in 28 matches for Orlando City, scoring one goal and registering four assists.
Orlando City returns to action on Friday, June 30, when it visits Real Salt Lake. Kickoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET. The match will be nationally televised on ESPN and transmitted locally in English on Real Radio 104.1 FM and in Spanish on La Nueva 990 AM.
TRANSACTION: Orlando City SC waives midfielder Matías Pérez García. Additionally, the Club recalls defender Léo Pereira from Orlando City B.
