York United FC can confirm the transfer of striker Osaze de Rosario to MLS NEXT Pro side Tacoma Defiance.

The 22-year-old striker enjoyed a pair of excellent seasons with The Nine Stripes after signing with the club ahead of the 2022 campaign.

He finished his extraordinary maiden Canadian Premier League adventure with 12 goals, narrowly missing out on the league’s Golden Boot award. He racked up another goal in the Canadian Championship while tallying four assists too in what was a standout debut season.

His sophomore year saw him deliver more big moments, including a dramatic winner at home to provincial rivals Atletico Ottawa. He saved the best until last, finding the net twice away to Vancouver FC in his side’s final (and must-win) regular season showdown. The victory ensured York United’s place in the CPL postseason for only the second time in their history. In total, he netted six times and managed a further two assists.

With 19 goals in 57 appearances, De Rosario is the club’s record goalscorer.

“Osaze has been a wonderful servant and we’re going to miss him,” said Head Coach Martin Nash.

“He has contributed enormously over the past two seasons but we’re excited for this next chapter and we know he will continue to develop because he’s still got so much potential. We wish him well and his legacy here is assured.”