When York9 FC revealed the club’s home and away kits in early April, the Newmarket-based club ceremony brought with it two low-key announcements: Nathan Ingham had signed with the club, and Jim Brennan was looking to bring in a Venezuelan player who would meet the club in Punta Cana for preseason.

While Ingham got a social media-based announcement, everything went radio silent regarding the capture of José Piña.

Now that the Canadian Premier League has come out with a much more detailed roster system – which includes player statistics, club history, and a biography section – it seems York9 FC has indeed signed José Piña, who’s delay in arrival is still unexplained.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder can use both feet, typically playing as a left midfielder. With some flashy footwork, this makes Piña a good stand-in for Ryan Telfer when needed, though he’s much less defensively-minded. Given how Forge FC didn’t hold back in sending rough challenges Telfer’s way in the inaugural match, though, it’s probably not a bad idea to have someone like Piña in the squad.

Piña appears to have spent his entire playing career in Venezuela, clocking in time with Athletic Venezuela but failing to really make a claim as a starting player. With a jump overseas, José will be looking for a fresh start to establish himself – though he faces tough competition in the likes of Ryan Telfer, unless Brennan intends to play him as more of a central midfielder.

In this case, if Piña is cleared to play in time he may fill in for Manny Aparicio next weekend, who picked up a red card in the club’s first-ever game.

This means Piña was York9 FC’s third international signing, behind Simon Adjei (Sweden) and Wataru Murofushi (Japan). A day before the inaugural game, York9 FC signed its fourth and final international player in Rodrigo Gattas, completing the squad’s 23 man roster.

Financial details and contract length were not revealed by York9 FC, who still have yet to officially introduce the player.

Source: Canadian Premier League