ORLANDO, FL – Orlando City SC has made a significant move in the MLS free agency market by signing experienced attacking midfielder Nicolás Lodeiro. The club announced on Thursday that the Uruguayan playmaker, a Seattle Sounders FC legend, joins them through 2024 with an option for 2025.
Lodeiro, 34, concluded an impressive eight-season tenure with Seattle, where he tallied 41 goals and 80 assists over 191 matches. His time at Seattle was marked by considerable success, including two MLS Cup victories (2016 and 2019) and a historic Concacaf Champions League title in 2022.
With 60 caps for the Uruguayan national team, including appearances in two World Cups and four Copa Américas, Lodeiro brings a wealth of international experience. He has also featured for renowned clubs such as Boca Juniors in Argentina and Ajax in the Netherlands.
Luiz Muzzi, Orlando’s EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager, expressed excitement about Lodeiro’s addition: “We are thrilled to have Nico join us here in Orlando. He is a proven winner in this league… He knows what it takes.”
Lodeiro arrives in Orlando as a likely replacement for fellow Uruguayan Mauricio Pereyra, with his contract not occupying a Designated Player spot. This strategic move provides Orlando with additional flexibility in the Primary Transfer Window, potentially to sign a third DP alongside Facundo Torres and Martín Ojeda.
“We know he’ll provide valuable experience and leadership to our locker room as we look to build upon our club’s successes this season,” Muzzi added.
Orlando City SC, coming off a year where they were the Supporters’ Shield runners-up, is set to kick off their 2024 campaign on Feb. 21 against Canadian Premier League side Cavalry FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One series. Their MLS season begins on Feb. 24 at home against CF Montréal.
Lodeiro’s signing is seen as a major boost for Orlando, offering experience, leadership, and proven skill in the midfield as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
