February 6, 2024 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Orange County SC News Release
Orange County SC are pleased to announce the signing of French midfielder Sofiane Djeffal for the upcoming USL Championship season. Djeffal joins the Black and Orange after previously playing for Austin FC and D.C. United of the MLS.
The 24-year-old native of Nantes, France most recently appeared for Austin FC, where he was the first pick of the MLS Re-Entry Draft in 2023. Djeffal appeared in nine matches for Los Verdes across all competitions, including one start in the CONCACAF Champions League alongside fellow OCSC teammate Charlie Asensio.
“I decided to join OCSC because I really wanted to be a part of an ambitious project where I could grow as a player, as well as an individual,” Djeffal said. “My goal for 2024 is clear, I want to win the league and hope to contribute to the team’s success as much as I possibly can.”
Prior to his stop in Austin, Djeffal was selected with the 36th pick of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft by D.C. United. In the nation’s capital, he played over 1,600 minutes in 28 appearances for DCU and tallied one assist. He also led the club in tackles (45) and tackles won (27), while also being top 5 on the squad in blocks (29) and interceptions (27).
“Sofiane is an elegant midfielder, who looks to dictate play and control possession. We feel he will fit our game model perfectly and complement our current group of midfielders.” OCSC President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Peter Nugent said. “Given the platform and the right environment, we feel we can assist him get back to the highest level possible.”
Before turning professional, Djeffal played four years at Oregon State University out of the Pac-12 Conference. He appeared in 66 matches (65 starts) for the Beavers, tallying 20 goals and 21 assists. During his time in Corvallis, Djeffal received numerous awards, including: Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2018), Pac-12 All-Conference First Team (2018-2021), and Pac-12 Player of the Year (2021).
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Transaction Details:
Orange County SC sign midfielder Sofiane Djeffal, February 2024
Name: Sofiane Djeffal
Pronunciation: Soh-fee-AHN zheff-all
Position:…