The first time FC Cincinnati fans saw Frankie Amaya was at the 2019 MLS SuperDraft in Chicago. But the spotlight wasn’t on him – initially. Instead, it was on FC Cincinnati’s table, where LAFC walked over and attempted a dramatically-transparent trade for the first pick.
The trade attempt was to get Amaya. Cincinnati said no.
Why this matters now – on a day when the Orange and Blue loaned Amaya to Orange County SC – is because it’s a reminder of how important the 18-year-old midfielder is to Cincinnati’s plans.
Through the first seven MLS matches this season, Amaya has made two appearances – both as a substitute. Both times, his work in training and off the field led to his minutes. The only issue, though, was that his minutes were limited.
As a result, the short-term loan to USL Championship side Orange County SC is a chance to get what needs more of: match experience.
“I feel like it’s going to put me in a better place,” Amaya said. “I really want to play here in Cincinnati, but I think it’s the best thing for me.”
Joining OCSC for a month is a chance for Amaya to go home in the same way that last Saturday night’s match at LAFC was his homecoming. Now with Orange County, the Santa Ana product joked he’s going back to his mom’s cooking.
Obviously, a chance to be with his family will be appreciated and savored. But what truly matters in this loan deal is what Amaya is savoring.
Amaya’s loan deal expires ahead of the 2019 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, which runs from May 23 through June 15 and will be played in Poland.
The loan isn’t just about minutes in California. It’s about putting Amaya in a better position for a roster spot on the United States team that will play in Poland.
Consider this: Amaya is 18 years old and has become a regular with the U.S. Under-20 National Team. It’s a testament to his quality and potential at a younger age. He’s a crafty midfield who can defend as well as he creates. Earning a spot at a youth World Cup would be his biggest accomplishment yet.
“I think it’s a good moment for me,” he said. “It’s sad leaving FC Cincinnati, but I’ll be back. It’s just a good way to get some games in and keep pushing.”
In past iterations, U.S. Soccer has announced its roster for the Under-20 World Cup in early May. Orange County SC has five matches between now and the start of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup on May 23:
- April 20 at OCK Energy FC
- April 26 at Fresno FC
- May 4 vs. Phoenix Rising FC
- May 11 at San Antonio FC
- May 18 vs. Austin Bold FC
If he plays well and is selected to the U.S. U-20 Team, he’ll play Nigeria, Qatar and Ukraine in Poland in the group stage of the event.
Amaya has proven he belongs on an MLS roster. After all, that’s why FC Cincinnati drafted him and Head Coach Alan Koch has selected the teenager to play twice.
This short-term loan move comes with serious long-term potential – with a side of his mom’s cooking.
