The Vancouver Whitecaps, after an unsuccessful 2016 season in which they failed to make the playoffs, have begun their roster rebuild ahead of 2017 by saying goodbye to a key player.

The team announced Wednesday that they have declined to exercise the option of midfielder, and team captain, Pedro Morales. The former Malaga CF standout joined the Whitecaps in March of 2014, where his impact was felt immediately. In his three seasons with the Canadian side, Morales has become the team’s all-time MLS regular season leader in assists with 22, and second in goals with 25 while starting 71 of 86 appearances, including three playoff matches. Morales also notched four goals and three assists in seven career Voyageurs Cup matches, including winning the Whitecaps’ first title in 2015.

“Since the day Pedro joined our club he has been an excellent professional and one of the most naturally gifted players I have ever coached,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “We are thankful for his contributions to the club and city, and wish him all the best.”

“I’d like to give thanks on behalf of my family and I for these three amazing years, which without a doubt have made an impact on my life as a person and my career as a football player,” Morales wrote in an open letter. “I have finished my time as a Whitecaps FC player and I’m truly grateful and honoured for the opportunity I had to be a part of this amazing club. I hope to remain in the memory of those who knew my football skills but more so to those who knew me as a person. Along with my family, all I can say is that we were happy here in Vancouver and we want to wish the club much success in the new season.”

Morales is eligible for the MLS re-entry draft unless he opts out or is traded before the draft begins. Stage one of the draft is set for December 16th, while stage two takes place on December 22nd.