Portuguese midfielder Xavier Venâncio has joined Valour FC of the Canadian Premier League on a one-year contract with an option for 2026.
Venâncio, 25, arrives at Valour after making more than 60 appearances in Italy and Portugal since making his pro debut in 2018.
Most recently he was with ASD Chieri Calcio in Italy’s Serie D, where he made 17 appearances with one goal and three assists. It was Venâncio’s second stint in Italy, after making his professional debut with FC Rieti 1936 in September 2018.
He came up through Real SC’s youth system before moving to CF Os Belenenses at the under-19 level. Following his first stint in Italy with Rieti, Venâncio played for Académica de Coimbra at the under-23 level as well as SC Olhanense before returning to Italy with ASD Chieri.
"We are happy to add Xavi to our squad," Valour coach and GM Phillip Dos Santos said in a statement. "We like his work ethic, creativity and capacity to unbalance opponents. He’s also a versatile player who can be used across the front line or as a creative midfielder."
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 4, 2025
The Canadian Press