VANCOUVER: Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced Tuesday that the club has re-signed Designated Player Pedro Morales to a multi-year contract extension. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Since Pedro joined our team at the beginning of last season, he has been nothing short of a top player and professional,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “Pedro is instrumental to the success of this club and a true leader for our young group of players.”
Whitecaps FC midfielder Pedro Morales
– 2014 MLS Newcomer of the Year
– First ‘Caps player to reach double digits in goals/assists in one season
– 15 goals and 16 assists in 52 regular season appearances
– Second captain for Whitecaps FC in MLS
“My family and I are extremely happy in Vancouver and I am fully committed to this club,” Morales said. “From Carl Robinson, to my teammates, to all the staff, and of course the fans, this is a first-class organization and I’m proud to be a part of it. I will continue to work hard to help Whitecaps FC achieve success.”
Morales, 30, joined Whitecaps FC in March 2014 on a free transfer from Spain’s La Liga side Málaga CF. The Chilean, who was named the second captain in Whitecaps FC’s MLS history midway through the season, went on to lead the team with 10 goals and 12 assists in his first season – becoming the first Whitecaps FC player to reach double digits in both categories. For his efforts, Morales was named the 2014 MLS Newcomer of the Year and Whitecaps FC BMO Player of the Year.
So far this season, Morales has five goals and four assists in 19 regular season appearances. The skipper, who has scored two free kick goals in as many games and three this month, has also picked up two goals and an assist in three appearances between the Amway Canadian Championship and CONCACAF Champions League. Also of note, only four MLS players have created more chances than Morales (129) since the beginning of last season.
Next up for Morales and the ‘Caps is an important Western Conference matchup with FC Dallas on Saturday at BC Place. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. PT and tickets are still available.
Pedro Morales
Position: Attacking midfielder
Height: 5-11
Weight: 170 pounds
Date of Birth: May 25, 1985, in Hualpén, Chile
Hometown: Hualpén, Chile
Citizenship: Chile
Status: International, Designated Player
Previous Club: Málaga CF (Spain’s La Liga)
How Acquired: Acquired via free transfer from Spain’s La Liga side Málaga CF on March 5, 2014