Republic FC picks up option on Octavio Guzman

Republic FC announced Friday that midfielder Octavio Guzman will return in 2016 and that he has had shoulder surgery.

The 24-year-old Guzman, an original member of Republic FC, played in 18 USL matches and had three goals and three assists before being sidelined for the remainder of the 2015 season by a right knee injury in a 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders 2 on Aug. 1.

The former Chico State player also is rehabbing from arthroscopic left shoulder surgery on Oct. 12.

“Tavo has been extremely unlucky with his injuries after starting 17 matches for the club this past season,” Republic FC coach Paul Buckle said in a statement. “We know based on his performance how much he means to our club – both in his attitude and aptitude.”

Buckle said it was important for Republic FC to exercise its contract option “at a time he needs it the most.” He expects Guzman will be healthy by the start of next season.

The Guadalajara, Mexico, native has appeared in 57 Republic FC matches – 42 in USL play – and was an important contributor during Sacramento’s 2014 USL title run.

He has five goals and four assists in USL play and had his first two-goal performance in a 3-2 win over LA Galaxy II on March 28.

Guzman ranks seventh in minutes overall (3,438) and in USL play (2,617) in Republic FC’s two-year history.

This story was originally published October 23, 2015 at 1:51 PM with the headline "Republic FC picks up option on Octavio Guzman."