Orlando City Goalkeepers 2025
Orlando City SC has long been a club that prides itself on a strong defensive foundation, and the 2025 season is no exception. The goalkeeping department, in particular, is a blend of experience, youth, and international flair. As the Lions aim to compete at the highest level in Major League Soccer (MLS) and beyond, the men between the posts will play a pivotal role in determining the team’s success. This post delves into the current roster of Orlando City goalkeepers, providing an in-depth look at each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the club.
Pedro Gallese
Nationality: Peruvian
Transfer Fee: $500,000 (from Universidad San Martín in 2020)
Former Clubs: Alianza Lima, Veracruz, Universidad San Martín
Pedro Gallese, affectionately known as “El Pulpo” (The Octopus), has been a cornerstone of Orlando City’s defense since his arrival in 2020. The Peruvian international brings a wealth of experience, having represented his country in multiple Copa América tournaments and the FIFA World Cup. His agility, reflexes, and commanding presence in the box have made him one of MLS’s most reliable shot-stoppers. Gallese’s ability to read the game and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Gallese combines physicality with technical prowess. His distribution skills, particularly his ability to launch quick counterattacks with precise long balls, add an extra dimension to Orlando’s playstyle. Off the field, Gallese is known for his leadership and professionalism, often mentoring younger players and setting the standard for dedication. As he enters the latter stages of his career, his influence on the team remains undiminished, and he continues to be a vital asset for the Lions.
Mason Stajduhar
Nationality: American
Transfer Fee: Homegrown Player
Former Clubs: None
Mason Stajduhar is a testament to Orlando City’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. Born and raised in Florida, Stajduhar has been with the club since his youth days, rising through the ranks to become a key figure in the first team. His journey has been one of resilience and determination, particularly after overcoming a battle with cancer early in his career. This adversity has shaped him into a mentally strong and focused goalkeeper, qualities that shine through in his performances.
At 27 years old, Stajduhar is entering his prime years as a goalkeeper. His shot-stopping ability, combined with his quick reflexes and excellent positioning, makes him a dependable option between the posts. While he has primarily served as Gallese’s understudy, Stajduhar has proven his worth in cup competitions and during Gallese’s international call-ups. His loyalty to Orlando City and his deep connection with the fanbase make him a beloved figure at Exploria Stadium. As he continues to grow, Stajduhar represents the future of the club’s goalkeeping corps.
Javier Otero
Nationality: Venezuelan
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (from Orlando City Academy in 2022)
Former Clubs: None
Javier Otero is one of the most exciting young talents in Orlando City’s goalkeeping ranks. The Venezuelan youth international joined the club’s academy in 2022 and quickly made a name for himself with his impressive performances at the youth level. Otero’s rise through the ranks has been meteoric, and he now finds himself as the third-choice goalkeeper for the senior team.
At just 21 years old, Otero possesses a rare combination of athleticism and technical ability. His quick reflexes and ability to make acrobatic saves have drawn comparisons to some of the best young goalkeepers in South America. Otero is also comfortable with the ball at his feet, a trait that aligns perfectly with Orlando City’s emphasis on playing out from the back. While he is still developing and gaining experience, Otero’s potential is undeniable. The club sees him as a long-term project, and with the right guidance, he could become a star in MLS.
Adam Grinwis
Nationality: American
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (from Saint Louis FC in 2018)
Former Clubs: Rochester Rhinos, Saint Louis FC
Adam Grinwis is a seasoned professional who provides depth and experience to Orlando City’s goalkeeping unit. Since joining the club in 2018, Grinwis has been a reliable backup option, stepping up whenever called upon. His journey to MLS has been one of perseverance, having worked his way up from the lower divisions of American soccer.
Grinwis is known for his consistency and composure under pressure. At 33 years old, he brings a wealth of experience to the squad, both on and off the field. His leadership qualities and positive attitude make him a valuable presence in the locker room, while his ability to perform in high-stakes situations has earned him the trust of the coaching staff. While he may not be the first-choice goalkeeper, Grinwis’s contributions to the team extend beyond the pitch, as he plays a crucial role in maintaining a competitive and supportive environment within the squad.
Luca Mancuso
Nationality: Italian-American
Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (from AS Roma Academy in 2023)
Former Clubs: AS Roma Academy
Luca Mancuso is a rising star in Orlando City’s goalkeeping setup. The Italian-American shot-stopper joined the club in 2023 after spending his formative years at the prestigious AS Roma Academy. Mancuso’s technical ability and understanding of the game have made him one of the most promising young goalkeepers in MLS.
At 19 years old, Mancuso is still in the early stages of his career, but his potential is evident. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions sets him apart from many of his peers. Mancuso is also adept at playing out from the back, a skill that aligns with modern goalkeeping trends. While he is currently fourth in the pecking order, the club has high hopes for his development. With regular training and exposure to first-team environments, Mancuso could soon challenge for a more prominent role within the squad.
Conclusion
Orlando City’s goalkeeping department for the 2025 season is a blend of experience, youth, and potential. Pedro Gallese remains the undisputed number one, bringing world-class ability and leadership to the team. Mason Stajduhar and Adam Grinwis provide reliable backup options, while Javier Otero and Luca Mancuso represent the future of the club’s goalkeeping corps. Together, this group forms a strong foundation that will be crucial to Orlando City’s ambitions in MLS and beyond. As the season unfolds, the performances of these goalkeepers will undoubtedly play a key role in determining the team’s success.