Joaquín Ardaiz

PROFILE
A big, physical striker that has been scouted by top clubs around the world, Joaquín Ardaiz joined Whitecaps FC in February 2019 as a Young Designated Player after featuring in top leagues in Uruguay, Belgium, and Italy. 

ITALIAN SERIE A 
2018-19: Prior to arriving in Vancouver, Ardaiz was most recently on loan at Italian Serie A club Frosinone Calcio, making one appearance against Lazio in February 2018 before departing the club in January 2019. 

BELGIAN FIRST DIVISION
2017-18: Ardaiz first ventured outside of his home country at age 18, joining Royal Antwerp FC as a highly regarded international prospect. He would go on to score five goals in 13 starts and 21 appearances in league action and UEFA Europa League playoffs, as well as make two appearances in the Belgian Cup. 

URUGUAYAN PRIMERA DIVISIÓN
2016-17: Ardaiz made his professional debut for Danubio FC at age 17 in February 2016. He would go on to make 29 appearances as a teenager in the Primera División, scoring four goals. 

INTERNATIONAL
Ardaiz has represented Uruguay at both the U-15 and U-20 levels. In 2017, he scored two goals against Ecuador to clinch the South American U-20 Championship title, going on to make another seven appearances for his country as they finished fourth at the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup. 

OTHER NOTABLE FACTS
Ardaiz developed in his youth with Danubio FC... Recognized among the Tuttosport Golden Boy Award 2018 nominees, listing the 100 best U-21 players at a top tier European club... He was also selected to Goal.com’s NxGn list of the 50 best U-19 players in the world for 2017.