This week, former Brazilian National Team player Julio Baptista joined Orlando City in training. Baptista, who was nicknamed “The Beast” for his attacking skills on the pitch, looks to increase Orlando City’s offensive presence.

“The team is growing a lot,” Baptista said after training. “The team is solid defensively but also it connects offensively. It can show results on the field.”

Baptista has played for some very impressive clubs in his career, including Roma, Real Madrid, and Arsenal. But he started his career at São Paulo, playing alongside Orlando City midfielder Kaká for three seasons. Baptista and Kaká also played together on the Brazilian national team, and Baptista is grateful for the opportunity to be playing alongside his former teammate once again. “It obviously helps me a lot. We started our careers together in São Paulo and now we’re back together on this team,” Baptista said. “It definitely helps a lot.”

Baptista has played in many different leagues across Europe and South America, but he has been impressed by the leave of play in Major League Soccer. “Obviously I’ve noticed how physical the league is. You have to run a lot. You have to fight in every game,” Baptista said. “I’m ready for this challenge.”

Baptista feels that he is at full fitness and is hoping to be available on the bench for the team’s next home match. “Hopefully in the next home game I can be available and 100% fit to start that game,” Baptista said.

“Now I have this opportunity,” Baptista said. “I’m available to play.”