Orlando City SC has made a decisive move to secure the future of one of their key players, Iván Angulo. The club announced on Wednesday that the Colombian winger has been signed through the 2025 MLS season, with an option to extend for an additional year.
Angulo, 24, originally joined Orlando City on loan from Brazilian Serie A club Palmeiras. During his tenure with the Lions, he has made a significant impact, tallying five goals and eleven assists across 43 appearances. His contribution was particularly notable in the team’s 2022 US Open Cup victory, where his skills and attacking prowess played a crucial role.
Luiz Muzzi, Orlando City’s Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager, praised Angulo’s influence on the team. “Iván has been so impactful for us these last few years, not only with his creativity in the attacking phase of play but also with his defensive pressure from the wing,” Muzzi said. He highlighted how Angulo has seamlessly integrated into the team and become a vital part of their success.
Orlando City’s decision to sign Angulo on a long-term basis aligns with their broader strategy of building a strong, cohesive team for future seasons. This is evident in their recent activities, which include re-signing former loanee Wilder Cartegena and parting ways with midfielder Mauricio Pereyra, who has moved to Nacional in Uruguay. Additionally, the team has transferred center back Antônio Carlos to Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense and reportedly signed Seattle Sounders legend Nicolás Lodeiro to fill the No. 10 role.
The club is coming off a historic 2023 season, achieving a club-record 63 points and finishing with the second-best record (18W-7L-9D) in MLS. This outstanding performance has secured them a spot in next year’s Concacaf Champions Cup. Fans eagerly anticipate the team’s next campaign, which kicks off on February 24th against CF Montréal.
Orlando City SC’s commitment to strengthening its roster and retaining key players like Angulo demonstrates its ambition to continue being a formidable force in MLS. The club’s actions in the transfer market suggest a clear vision for the future, aiming to build on recent successes and achieve greater heights in the coming seasons.
