After weeks of speculation, former United City star OJ Porteria has declared that he has signed for Thai League 1 side Ratchaburi Mitr Phol.
“Blessed to announce that I’ve signed a three-year deal with Ratchaburi FC,” said the 26-year-old.
“I’m looking forward to starting playing with my new teammates and excited to compete in the Thai League.”
The transfer marks Porteria’s first-ever move to another league in Southeast Asia. He is the latest Filipino to sign for the said division, following the likes of Mar Diano, Jarvey Gayoso, and Dennis Villanueva.
In four campaigns with Ceres-Negros/United City, the 5-foot-7 player won four Philippines Football League crowns, and one Copa Paulino Alcantara in 2019. He was also part of the team that won the ASEAN Zonal title in the 2017 AFC Cup.
Beforehand, the DC United product also had a successful stint with Kaya-Iloilo Football Club. Kaya won the 2015 United Football League Cup through a penalty shootout against Ceres, which he scored in.
During the last PFL Season, Porteria tallied four goals and a couple of assists.
“Thank you to the club for believing in me and to everyone behind the scenes for making this move possible. Let’s finish the season strong! Come on Dragons,” added Porteria.
Ratchaburi is at fourth place in the 2020-2021 Thai League 1 season with 26 points, which comes from eight wins, two draws and five losses.
The said club last won the Thai League 1 back in 2012. Its last major domestic trophy was the 2016 Thai FA Cup.
The erstwhile United City stalwart hopes to help his new team maintain or improve on its position in the league table. Currently, it has a shot at making the 2021 AFC Champions League qualifiers.
