For the last six months, Alexandre Rodrigues da Silva — known to most by his nickname, Pato — has been trying to trust his gut.
The Brazilian star took a leap of faith when he terminated his contract with São Paulo in August because he was unhappy and no longer enjoying the sport. He spent months searching for a new home and for a sense of clarity about his own place on and off the pitch.
By the time Orlando City scouting director Ricardo Moreira reached out, Pato had received offers from teams across Europe, Asia and Brazil.