2022 Orlando City Player Reviews: Nicholas Gioacchini

For the next week, I'll be recapping each Orlando City player's season for all player who played at least 100 MLS minutes per FBRef in 2022, starting from the least used player to the most used.

Up first is young American forward Nicholas Gioacchini

Gioacchini was signed in the summer to add supplemental offense to the Orlando City roster, but the fringe USMNT forward made a minimal impact to start his MLS career.

Since arriving in July, the 22-year-old forward played in six league games for the Lions and played just 138 minutes. He also added an appearance in the US Open Cup and played one game in MLS Next Pro, registering an assist -- his only goal or assist for the club this year.

His underlying stats don't say much either, with just three shots, one key pass and five shot-creating actions in league play. He also completed two of his three dribble attempts.

Expectations were moderately high for Gioacchini coming into MLS. He started his professional career in France playing for SM Caen in Ligue 2 and appearing sporadically for Montpellier in the French top flight.

He has eight appearances for the USMNT, scoring three goals. He played five games en route to the US's Gold Cup championship in 2021, playing a key role along that group's forward line.

Despite the pedigree, Gioacchini didn't break through the Orlando first team this summer. The lack of playing time now doesn't make this a failed signing, however. The young forward has versatility that allows him to play anywhere on the forward line, a trait that makes him a valuable depth piece.

As a young player, there's also hope for improvement with time, and especially with a full offseason to grow with the team. Heading into next season, Gioacchini is one of the most intriguing x-factor players for Orlando City.