VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed on Wednesday that the club will not exercise the 2017 contract option on midfielder Pedro Morales.
“Since the day Pedro joined our club he has been an excellent professional and one of the most naturally gifted players I have ever coached,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “We are thankful for his contributions to the club and city, and wish him all the best.”
"I'd like to give thanks on behalf of my family and I for these three amazing years, which without a doubt have made an impact on my life as a person and my career as a football player," Morales wrote in an open letter on whitecapsfc.com. "I have finished my time as a Whitecaps FC player and I'm truly grateful and honoured for the opportunity I had to be a part of this amazing club. I hope to remain in the memory of those who knew my football skills but more so to those who knew me as a person. Along with my family, all I can say is that we were happy here in Vancouver and we want to wish the club much success in the new season."
Morales, 31, joined Whitecaps FC in March 2014 from Spain's La Liga side Málaga CF and leaves as the club's all-time MLS regular season assist leader with 22, and second in goals with 25. During his three seasons in Vancouver, the native of Hualpén, Chile started 71 of 86 MLS appearances, including three MLS Cup Playoffs matches.
In Amway Canadian Championship play, Morales started all seven of his appearances, scored four goals and added three assists, and helped Vancouver win their first ever Voyageurs Cup in 2015. Morales also made two CONCACAF Champions League appearances, assisting on one goal.
Morales was named the club's second captain since joining MLS, and 21st all-time, midway through his first season with Whitecaps FC. He was also named the MLS Newcomer of the Year following the 2014 season.
Per MLS roster rules and regulations, Morales will be eligible for the MLS Re-Entry Process unless he opts out or is traded. Stage One of the Re-Entry Draft will occur on December 16; Stage Two is set for December 22.
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