Former Zip Richie Laryea drafted 7th overall by Orlando City FC

Former Akron midfielder Richie Laryea, who signed a Generation adidas contract last week, was selected 7th overall in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft and will start his career with Orlando City FC.

Laryea will develop under former FIFA World Player of the Year and former Ballon d'Or winner Kaka, play alongside MLS 2015 rookie of the year Cyle Larin and U.S. men's national team member Brek Shea.

Wow I can't believe this so happy to be joining @OrlandoCitySC can't wait to get started!! #SuperDraft #BeTheDifference

— Richmond Laryea (@RichieLaryea_) January 14, 2016

Orlando has a history of taking Generation adidas players, with defender Conor Donovan, Larin, and now, Laryea. He will also join a young core of midfielders in Orlando, with the average age sitting around 24.

Laryea's friendship with fellow Canadian international Larin will also play a large role, as their connection on the pitch will smooth the transition from college to the pros. He also adds depth at multiple positions across the midfield for the Lions, which coach Adrian Heath should like after targeting a strong midfield prospect going into the draft.

Laryea scored 11 goals and recorded seven assists last season at Akron.

Fitting into a talented midfield that already features Kaka, Carlos Rivas and Darwin Cerén will be tough, but if Laryea can continue to sharpen his attacking instincts and score key goals while feeding smart balls into Larin, the young midfielder should find a place in the Lions' setup.