André Horta was officially unveiled as an LAFC player in a press conference before the Club's match with the Columbus Crew on Saturday.
On stage with LAFC President Tom Penn and GM John Thorrington, Horta first thanked LAFC ownership, staff, and Supporters for welcoming him to the Club, before adding, "I don't like to talk too much, I prefer to play."
After a nine-month pursuit of the Portuguese midfielder, Horta is finally in Los Angeles. So speaking of playing, when will we see him on the pitch?
Despite being signed on March 27, Horta remained with Braga past MLS' Primary Transfer Window deadline of May 1. As a result, the 21-year-old has to wait until July 10 to be registered by the Club with MLS. The soonest he can appear in a match for LAFC would be July 15 at Banc of California Stadium against the Portland Timbers. He will also be available for LAFC's U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal against the same Timbers on July 18.
While Horta can't appear in a match for LAFC until his registration with the League, he is able to train with LAFC. The date he can begin training with the squad is July 1.
So the wait is over. LAFC finally have its third Designated Player in place, and we'll see him on the pitch very soon.
