Where we left off last year
2025 season: 53 points, 9th in the Eastern Conference, 14th in MLS
Where we left off with Orlando City was with an embarrassing defeat at the hands of the Chicago Fire in the East’s wildcard game. Never truly able to gain a foothold in the game, Orlando fell 3-1 on the road in Chicago and saw their 2025 campaign end with a whimper. Still, it wasn’t a bad season, all things considered. If not for a hyper-competitive Eastern Conference, the Lions would’ve cruised to an automatic playoff spot with their 53 points and they posted the seventh-best xG differential in the league, as per FBref.
But to enter the league’s absolute best group of teams, Orlando needed more. That’s where a busy offseason comes into play.
What changed in the offseason
Notable arrivals:
- Maxime Crepeau, GK: While Orlando initially hoped to sign former New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel to replace Pedro Gallese, the front office had to pivot to Crepeau after being left at the altar by their preferred target. Crepeau, most recently of the Portland Timbers, is a less reliable shot-stopper when compared to both Coronel and Gallese, but has been successful in MLS before.
- Braian Ojeda, CM: Acquired from Real Salt Lake in exchange for at least $1.3 million in GAM, Ojeda will contend for starting minutes in Orlando City’s midfield. You don’t spend that much allocation money on a player if you don’t see a major role for them in your team. Ojeda is a well-rounded No. 8 who won’t win or lose you games.
