Jeff Dean/The Enquirer, Jeff Dean/The Enquirer, Cincinnati Enquirer via Imagn Content Services, LLC

FC Cincinnati signed homegrown midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela through the 2026 MLS season.

The deal announced Thursday with the 18-year-old known as "Dado" includes options for 2027 and 2028.

"Dado is an exciting young player who has worked incredibly hard for this opportunity," general manager Chris Albright said in a release. "He has an innate ability on the ball and continues to improve his defensive understanding of the game.

"His growth from our academy through MLS NEXT Pro has been a testament to all the work that's been done in our player pathway and we look forward to his continued development with the first team."

Valenzuela joined the FC Cincinnati academy in August 2020. He has two goals and three assists in 22 matches (20 starts) for FCC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro action.

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