2017 Monarchs Dossier: Emilio Orozco

Player name: Emilio Orozco

Position: Center Back

Last club: Chivas USA

One thing you need to know

Emilio is the lone player from the Monarchs’ 2015 inaugural season currently still on the squad. A very capable defender, it’s easy to see why Emilio has been retained into the 2017 season. Having past international experience with the US U-17 and U-20 teams, he began his professional career at Tigres UANL in Mexico, where he was soon loaned to NASL side Ft. Lauderdale Strikers. In 2013, he found himself on the Chivas USA roster after a successful preseason trial. 2015 saw Orozco sign with Real Monarchs just ahead of their inaugural season.

What he brings to the team

In his two years with the monarchs, Orozco has shown his ability to play not only in his natural defensive back position, but also in the midfield. He’s also shown he has potential to find the back of the net, having netted the match winner in a 1-0 victory over Swope Park Rangers in August 2016. As long as health permits, expect to see Orozco start a majority of 2017 matches.

Why you should be excited

Orozco has earned his reputation as a strong defender both on and off the ball. If he can continue to develop his ability to find himself in dangerous positions on set pieces, we could have a real two-way force on our hands.

Predictions for 2017

• We’ll see Orozco chip in 2-3 goals, more than likely from set pieces.
• You, the reader, will buy Monarchs season tickets if you haven’t already. They’re cheap.