The 17-year-old academy graduate will become just the eighth homegrown player in the club’s history.
Toronto FC announced on Thursday that academy graduate Manny Aparicio has signed his first professional contract with the club.
Aparicio becomes the eighth Homegrown player in franchise history.
“We’re very pleased to have Manny graduate from our Academy to our first team. He’s a terrific young man and talented player,” Toronto FC President and General Manager Kevin Payne told the club’s official website. “His signing is further evidence of the quality of our Academy.”
Aparicio, who plays in midfield, started in seven matches for the academy’s senior side in 2013, scoring two goals in the process. His five appearances for Toronto in the MLS Reserves league at the age of 17 is truly impressive.
“This is a dream come true,” Aparicio said in a statement. “The coaches have showed all the faith in me and I just want to make the most of this opportunity.”
As per team and league policy, details of the deal were not disclosed.
“Manny is a young talented player with great character and passion for the game,” said Toronto FC Academy Director Thomas Rongen. “He is a player that our TFC fans and community can be proud of for years to come.”
Aparicio had been at the academy since 2010 and was recently named in Canada’s under-18 squad for the L’Alcudia International Football Tournament.