MIDFIELDERS

IVÁN ANGULO

Age/Ht: 24/5-7

Citizenship: Colombia

The buzz: Angulo’s loan to Orlando was made permanent in January and he wasted no time showing why. His goal against Flamengo in Orlando’s first preseason match highlighted how dangerous the speedy winger can be. His connection with Facundo Torres and Nico Lodeiro could grow into one of the league’s most potent attacks.

CÉSAR ARAÚJO

Age/Ht: 22/5-10

Citizenship: Uruguay

The buzz: Araújo has quickly become one of the Lions’ most important players since he joined the club in 2022. His physicality in defense and ability to deliver timely passes make him one of Oscar Pareja’s most trusted midfield orchestrators. His first cap for Uruguay could potentially come this year if he continues to play at the level he has during the last two seasons.

WILDER CARTAGENA

Age/Ht: 29/5-11

Citizenship: Peru

The buzz: Cartagena’s partnership with César Araújo earned him a permanent move to Orlando in December. His calm and collected approach in midfield makes him the perfect link between the Lions’ defense and attack, allowing for quick transitions and recovery.

JEORGIO KOCEVSKI

Age/Ht: 21/6-1

Citizenship: United States Previous Club: Syracuse

The buzz: The 21st overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, the New York native was a four-year player at Syracuse where he helped lead the Orange to the 2022 NCAA national championship. He fits a need for Orlando as a box-to-box midfielder and should see playing time early in the season off the bench for the Lions.

NICO LODEIRO

Age/Ht: 34/5-9

Citizenship: Uruguay

Previous Club: Seattle Sounders The buzz: Lodeiro comes to the Lions after spending eight seasons in Seattle where he won two MLS Cups and the CONCACAF Champions League. He already looks right at home with the Lions, connecting well with fellow Uruguayan Facundo Torres in attack during the preseason.