Photo: Courtesy of Orlando City SC
Orlando City announced on Wednesday night that forward Chris Mueller has signed a pre-contract with an unnamed club in Europe and will leave the MLS side at the end of the 2021 season.
The Lions released this public statement, providing an update on contract negotiations between the club and Mueller:
Orlando City SC and Chris Mueller have been involved in contract negotiations for some time, with the forward’s contract set to expire following the 2021 Major League Soccer season. Earlier, Mueller informed the Club that he has signed a pre-contract to join a European team upon the end of his time with Orlando City. The pre-contract was signed in line with all FIFA regulations.
As noted, Mueller’s contract with Orlando City is valid through the end of the 2021 MLS season and will continue as a member of the Lions’ roster for the remainder of his time in Orlando.
Steven Goff of the Washington Post first reported the contract agreement, adding that Mueller is believed to be heading to a club in Scotland.
Mueller was selected 6th overall by Orlando in the 2018 SuperDraft out of the University of Wisconsin, budding into a key offensive player for the Lions over the last two seasons, including a 2nd place Rookie of the Year finish in 2019. Mueller entered 2021 coming off a career best year last season, bagging 10 goals and seven assists in 22 appearances. The winger is also tied for the most appearances in club history with
In Scotland, Mueller would have a great opportunity to further his career overseas and build on his profile for the Gregg Berhalter and the U.S. Men’s National Team, which he made his debut with last winter in a win over El Salvador.
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