RJ Allen is one of the newest faces joining Orlando City ahead of the 2018 Major League Soccer season, but he is quite familiar with Lions coach Jason Kreis.
After playing for Kreis at New York City FC in 2015, Allen is excited to reunite with the coach now leading Orlando City.
“I think whenever you have a relationship and know what the coach’s expectations are and how they go about their every-day business, it definitely helps in the transition process,” Allen told Pro Soccer USA Sunday. “It’s one that I’m really excited about and can’t wait to start.
Allen added, “Transition has been great. Obviously, I already have a relationship with the staff that definitely helps. … I was really excited when I got the call, couldn’t wait to get started, Obviously, it’s a great club, great fan base and a fantastic stadium to be a part of. It’s definitely exciting.”
Allen, 27, was acquired by Orlando City in December after the Lions traded their third-round pick of the 2018 MLS SuperDraft for the Old Bridge, N.J. native.
With preseason camp officially beginning on Monday, Allen is looking forward to training again after playing a part in NYCFC’s 2017 playoff run.
“I’m excited to get back on the field. It’s been a long offseason. We didn’t go too far in the playoffs last year. So for myself, it’s been a long offseason, and I can’t wait to get started.”
The right-back defender, who’s entering his fourth season in Major League Soccer, played three seasons at NYCFC from 2015-2017.
After contributing to NYCFC’s first playoff run in 2016 and playing in 24 games, he saw his playing time dwindle to 15 appearances with NYCFC in 2017.
Allen is part of a group of players Orlando acquired this offseason that have playoff experience, joining Sacha Kljestan (New York Red Bulls) and Jose Villarreal (L.A. Galaxy.)
“I’ll definitely share my experiences over in New York and bring them here,” Allen said. “Hopefully make a real strong run at not just making playoffs, but pursuing more than just the playoffs because the club and the caliber of players Jason and his staff and Niki [Budalic] have brought in, definitely [we] can achieve more of just playoffs.”
Villarreal’s new start
Villarreal admits last year wasn’t the best of his professional career.
His former club, L.A. Galaxy, had its worst season in recent memory, finishing last in the overall standings (32 points, 8-18-8). A midseason coaching change and player turnover only added to the troublesome season.
Heading into 2018, however, Villarreal is looking to make the best of his new opportunity with the Lions.
“Everyone knows in the league it was a tough year for the Galaxy and a lot of changes happening throughout the year,” Villarreal said. “It was a learning experience to see and to go through a hard situation. Now I have to show myself here and make the best of it.”
Villarreal had his option declined by the Galaxy after the 2017 season and was picked up by the Lions on Dec. 27 after trading their third-round pick of the 2019 MLS SuperDraft for the 24-year-old midfielder.
Etc.
Left-back defender Victor “PC” Giro told Pro Soccer USA on Sunday he’s in the process of acquiring his green card, which will free up an international slot for Orlando City.
Defender Mohamed El-Munir, who was acquired by Orlando City in December, has not arrived to the United States yet. A club spokesman says he’s still sorting out his visa paperwork. It is unknown when he is expected to arrive in Orlando.
Designated player Yoshimar Yotún and Sacha Kljestan were not part of Sunday’s player medical exams at Orlando Heath. They are travelling back from Los Angeles after participating in MLS’ annual media day.