5 Things: New Signing André Horta

He's been on LAFC's radar for quite some time. And finally, it's official. André Horta will join LAFC this season as the Club's third Designated Player. 

Here's 5 things you need to know about the young Portuguese midfielder:

Can Pick A Pass

One of the things Bob Bradley comes back to every time he's asked about Horta is his ability to control games. Horta's range of passing is excellent. Short passes, long pass, through balls, in space, from deep, high up the pitch... he can do it all. As a midfielder in Bradley's team, you're asked to do two things: connect play and keep the ball moving. Horta will fit right in.

International Experience

Capped at nearly ever level for Portugal's youth national teams, Horta has a wealth experience at the international level. At the club level, he's played in both the Europa League and UEFA Champions League. 

Grew Up In The Benfica System

Horta spent eight years in the Benfica's illustrious youth system before making the jump to the professional ranks with Vitória FC. Past products of Benfica's academy include André Gomes, now with Barcelona, Ederson, now the goalkeeper at Manchester City, and Fiorentina and Milan great Rui Costa.

Young DPs

With the addition of Horta, LAFC now have two Designated Players age 21 or younger. Add Carlos Vela, 29, into the mix, and LAFC have the third youngest trio of Designated Players (average age 23.3) in the League behind Atlanta and Dallas.

Game Changer

When Bradley mentions your name in the same breath as Kevin De Bruyne and Xavi, you're definitely a special talent. Horta's passing ability, combined with his eye for breaking the lines with the ball at his feet and long-distance shot, make him the type of player that can dominate matches in a variety of ways. Whether it's scoring goals, setting up teammates, or dominating possession for his team, Horta puts his stamp on the matches he plays in.