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Orlando Pride takes big gamble by renewing Viviana Villacorta's contract

Midfielder Viviana Villacorta, recovering from injury, has renewed her contract and promises to be the difference next season

By Izabelle Franca

Jul 23, 2023; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Pride midfielder Viviana Villacorta (14) plays the ball in the second half against New Jersey/New York Gotham FC at Exploria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 23, 2023; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Pride midfielder Viviana Villacorta (14) plays the ball in the second half against New Jersey/New York Gotham FC at Exploria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
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Orlando Pride have just made a bold and surprising move by renewing the contract of midfielder Viviana Villacorta until the 2025 season, with a mutual option for 2026. This move rekindles hope for the triumphant return of the player, whose 2023 season was cut short by a devastating injury. Selected by the Pride as the ninth pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft, Viviana is a high-stakes prospect full of promise.

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Viviana's resilience is something you don't see every day. The young midfielder suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee in 2023, a hard blow that would end any player's season. However, she didn't let it get her down. According to Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Haley Carter, “Viv has shown that she has the potential to be one of the best midfielders in the league, but she wasn't able to fully demonstrate that due to the late injury last season. Despite the setback, she persevered, worked hard to get back on the field and continued to be an incredible teammate throughout the process.”

This tenacity is a breath of hope for Orlando Pride, who see Villacorta as a real difference-maker on the pitch. The club believes that her return will not only bring stability to the midfield, but could also be the turning point for next season. Viviana expressed her gratitude to the club and the team for believing in her.

“I'm very grateful to the club and the team for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. To be able to continue my journey with this incredible group of people supporting me means the world. Orlando has been my home for the last three years and I can't wait to get back on the pitch and give it everything I've got.”

The 23-year-old midfielder has already shown her worth in her 36 appearances for the Pride since her professional debut in May 2022. In 2023, before her injury, she played in 16 games, registering one assist. Her college record at UCLA also leaves no doubt about her talent: she played in all 72 potential games, with 60 starts, scoring seven goals and 16 assists.

Villacorta's signing is a strategic move by the Orlando Pride, who envision a promising future with the young midfielder in their ranks. Viviana's ability to bounce back from a serious injury and her unwavering determination are qualities that can take the team to new heights. Villacorta's fighting spirit is a shining example of how dedication and hard work can overcome adversity, and her presence on the pitch promises to inspire her teammates and the fans.

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the big question hanging in the air is: can this renovation really strengthen Orlando Pride? The answer seems to lie in the hands - and feet - of Viviana Villacorta. The challenges are great, but the confidence in Viviana's talent is even greater. If she can demonstrate her full potential, Viviana could be the key to the Orlando Pride's success in the coming years.

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