AFC Bournemouth sign 'strategic affiliation' with MLS side
The Cherries are now connected to Orlando City SC in Florida
Last updated 30th Apr 2025
AFC Bournemouth's owners Black Knight Football Club (BKFC) have set up a 'strategic affiliation agreement' with American MLS side Orlando City SC.
The club says the connection will focus on player development, scouting operations, executive collaboration and commercial opportunities.
Orlando City SC began life in the MLS in 2015, and has reached the playoffs in five straight seasons, qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup (formerly Concacaf Champions League) in 2023 and 2024, and won the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2022.
BKFC has now officially linked AFC Bournemouth with Auckland FC (New Zealand), FC Lorient (France) and Hibernian FC (Scotland) and Kyoto Sanga (Japan).
BKFC President Tim Bezbatchenko said: “In Orlando City SC we’ve found a like-minded partner in a geographic area that was a priority for us.
“We look forward to building a strong connection that will benefit players and clubs from both groups and ultimately make all of us more successful, especially in the areas of player development and talent identification.”
Luiz Muzzi, Senior Advisor to Ownership, Global Soccer Ventures said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Black Knight Football Club.
“This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to excellence both on and off the field. It’s a powerful step toward expanding our global footprint while providing valuable development opportunities for players, coaches, and staff. We look forward to exploring additional opportunities to work together as the partnership continues to evolve.”