Orlando City Squad 2025
Introduction
As Orlando City continues to establish itself as a formidable force in Major League Soccer (MLS), the 2025 squad reflects a blend of seasoned veterans, emerging talents, and strategic acquisitions. Under the guidance of a forward-thinking coaching staff and a robust scouting network, the Lions have assembled a roster capable of competing for both domestic and international honors. This post delves into the intricacies of the 2025 squad, breaking down the players by position and providing an in-depth analysis of their backgrounds, skills, and contributions to the team. From reliable goalkeepers to dynamic forwards, each player brings a unique element to the pitch, making Orlando City a team to watch in the coming seasons.
Goalkeepers
- Pedro Gallese
- Nationality: Peruvian
- Former Clubs: Alianza Lima, Veracruz, Universidad San Martín
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2020)
- Description: Pedro Gallese, affectionately known as “El Pulpo” (The Octopus), remains a cornerstone of Orlando City’s defense in 2025. The Peruvian international joined the club in 2020 and has since become one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in MLS. With exceptional reflexes, commanding presence in the box, and a knack for saving penalties, Gallese has earned a reputation as one of the league’s elite goalkeepers. His leadership and experience have been invaluable, particularly in high-pressure situations. Gallese’s ability to organize the defense and distribute the ball accurately has also been pivotal in transitioning from defense to attack.
- Adam Grinwis
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Rochester Rhinos, Saint Louis FC
- Transfer Fee: Free (2018)
- Description: Adam Grinwis continues to serve as a dependable backup to Pedro Gallese. Known for his work ethic and professionalism, Grinwis has stepped up whenever called upon, delivering solid performances in both MLS and domestic cup competitions. His athleticism and ability to read the game make him a reliable option between the sticks. While primarily a backup, Grinwis has proven his worth in critical moments, including penalty shootouts, where his composure has been a key asset.
- Mason Stajduhar
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Orlando City B
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
- Description: A product of Orlando City’s youth academy, Mason Stajduhar represents the club’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. Despite battling health challenges earlier in his career, Stajduhar has emerged as a promising young goalkeeper with immense potential. His agility, shot-stopping ability, and confidence in one-on-one situations have earned him opportunities in cup matches and as a third-choice keeper. Stajduhar’s journey is an inspiration, and his development will be closely monitored in the coming years.
Defenders
- Robin Jansson
- Nationality: Swedish
- Former Clubs: AIK, IFK Göteborg
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2019)
- Description: Robin Jansson, the Swedish stalwart, remains a pillar of Orlando City’s defense in 2025. Known for his physicality, aerial dominance, and no-nonsense approach, Jansson has been a consistent performer since joining the club. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him a fan favorite. Jansson’s leadership qualities and experience have also been instrumental in mentoring younger defenders. A set-piece threat, he has contributed with vital goals from corners and free-kicks, further underscoring his importance to the team.
- Antonio Carlos
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Palmeiras, Ponte Preta
- Transfer Fee: $1.2 million (2020)
- Description: Antonio Carlos, the Brazilian center-back, continues to form a formidable partnership with Robin Jansson. His composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Orlando City’s style of play. Carlos’ physical presence and timing in tackles have made him a nightmare for opposing forwards. Additionally, his experience in top-flight Brazilian football has brought a winning mentality to the squad. Despite interest from other clubs, Carlos remains committed to Orlando City, where he has become a key figure in their defensive setup.
- João Moutinho
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: LAFC, Sporting CP
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2021)
- Description: João Moutinho, the Portuguese left-back, has been a revelation since joining Orlando City. Known for his attacking prowess, technical ability, and defensive discipline, Moutinho has become one of the league’s premier full-backs. His overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses have added a new dimension to the team’s attack, while his defensive contributions have been equally impressive. Moutinho’s versatility allows him to play as a wing-back or even in midfield, providing the coaching staff with tactical flexibility.
- Kyle Smith
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Louisville City FC
- Transfer Fee: Free (2019)
- Description: Kyle Smith, a versatile defender, has been a reliable option for Orlando City since his arrival in 2019. Capable of playing as a right-back, left-back, or center-back, Smith’s adaptability has made him a valuable asset. His work rate, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in attack have earned him a regular spot in the squad. Smith’s consistency and professionalism have made him a respected figure in the locker room, and his contributions often go beyond the stat sheet.
- Michael Halliday
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Orlando City B
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
- Description: Michael Halliday, another academy graduate, has emerged as a promising right-back for Orlando City. Known for his pace, defensive tenacity, and ability to join the attack, Halliday has shown immense potential. His performances in both MLS and youth tournaments have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best full-backs. As he continues to develop, Halliday is expected to play an increasingly important role in the team’s defensive and attacking schemes.
Midfielders
- Mauricio Pereyra
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Krasnodar, Nacional
- Transfer Fee: Free (2019)
- Description: Mauricio Pereyra, the Uruguayan playmaker, remains the creative heartbeat of Orlando City’s midfield. Known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Pereyra has been instrumental in the team’s success. His leadership on and off the pitch has made him a respected figure within the squad. Pereyra’s ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes and his knack for scoring crucial goals have solidified his status as one of MLS’s top midfielders.
- César Araújo
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Montevideo Wanderers
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2022)
- Description: César Araújo, the young Uruguayan midfielder, has quickly established himself as a key player for Orlando City. Known for his tenacity, ball-winning ability, and composure under pressure, Araújo has become a vital cog in the team’s midfield. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best defensive midfielders. Araújo’s work ethic and determination have endeared him to fans, and his potential is limitless.
- Júnior Urso
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Corinthians, Changchun Yatai
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2020)
- Description: Júnior Urso, affectionately known as “The Bear,” continues to be a driving force in Orlando City’s midfield. His physicality, energy, and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch have made him a fan favorite. Urso’s leadership and experience have been invaluable, particularly in high-stakes matches. Whether breaking up opposition attacks or driving forward with the ball, Urso’s all-action style has been a key component of the team’s success.
- Andrés Perea
- Nationality: Colombian-American
- Former Clubs: Atlético Nacional, New York City FC (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Free (2020)
- Description: Andrés Perea, the versatile midfielder, has become an integral part of Orlando City’s squad. Known for his technical ability, work rate, and tactical intelligence, Perea has excelled in various midfield roles. His ability to contribute defensively and offensively has made him a valuable asset. Perea’s development has been a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent, and his future looks incredibly bright.
Forwards
- Facundo Torres
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Peñarol
- Transfer Fee: $9 million (2022)
- Description: Facundo Torres, the Uruguayan winger, has been a revelation since joining Orlando City. Known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal, Torres has become one of the league’s most exciting players. His ability to cut inside and unleash powerful shots has made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Torres’ performances have drawn interest from top European clubs, but he remains committed to helping Orlando City achieve its ambitions.
- Daryl Dike
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Barnsley (loan), West Bromwich Albion
- Transfer Fee: $9.5 million (2023)
- Description: Daryl Dike, the powerful striker, returned to Orlando City in 2023 after a successful stint in England. Known for his physicality, aerial ability, and clinical finishing, Dike has been a focal point of the team’s attack. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game has added a new dimension to Orlando City’s offensive strategies. Dike’s return has been a major boost, and he is expected to lead the line for years to come.
- Ercan Kara
- Nationality: Austrian
- Former Clubs: Rapid Vienna
- Transfer Fee: $2.5 million (2022)
- Description: Ercan Kara, the Austrian forward, has been a consistent goal-scorer for Orlando City since his arrival. Known for his positioning, finishing, and ability to link up play, Kara has been a reliable option in attack. His experience in European football has brought a level of sophistication to the team’s offensive play. Kara’s contributions have been vital in both league and cup competitions, making him a key player in the squad.
- Benji Michel
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Orlando City B
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
- Description: Benji Michel, the homegrown forward, continues to be a valuable asset for Orlando City. Known for his pace, work rate, and ability to score crucial goals, Michel has been a consistent performer. His versatility allows him to play as a winger or striker, providing the coaching staff with tactical options. Michel’s commitment to the club and his ability to deliver in key moments have made him a fan favorite.
Conclusion
The 2025 Orlando City squad is a testament to the club’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence. With a blend of experienced leaders, emerging talents, and strategic signings, the Lions are well-positioned to compete at the highest level. Each player brings a unique set of skills and attributes, contributing to a cohesive and dynamic team. As the season unfolds, Orlando City fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a genuine pursuit of silverware. The future is bright for the Lions, and the 2025 squad is poised to leave an indelible mark on the club’s history.