Orlando City 2023 Season Preview

We'll start with a handful of

Top Defender

Robin Jansson

Swedish center back Robin Jansson is the anchor of Orlando's entire team. His toughness and passing sets the tone for the entire team. His partner-in-crime Antonio Carlos is massively important as well, but Jansson's passing sets him apart.

His ability to break lines with his left foot is essential to Orlando's ball progression and ability to create chances.

Top Prospect

Michael Halliday

Orlando has a handful of good prospects, and a handful are arguably better than right back Michael Halliday. However, Halliday seems to be a locked in starter and could have an impressive season.

He replaces the ever-inconsistent Ruan on the right flank. Halliday has comparable speed, but looks to be even better both at delivering the final ball and holding his own defensively. Strikers Duncan McGuire and Ramiro Enrique, as well as center back Thomas Williams are also players to watch.

Top Signing

Martín Ojeda

Orlando went out and signed a big Designated Player in Argentine winger Martín Ojeda. The former Godoy Cruz captain is a talented creative force with an eye for goal. He brings a level of dynamism to an attack that stagnated much of last season.

Ojeda impressed in the preseason finale against New England, and that's just a taste of what he can do in MLS this year.

Under-the-Radar Player

Iván Angulo

Orlando brought in a few fresh faces in the attack, but extending the loan of Iván Angulo went under the radar. The Colombian was fine last season, and he could be even better with more time to integrate with the team.

His ability to play as a pure chalk-on-boots winger is unique amongst Orlando's forwards, and Angulo's probably the best defensive forward on the roster. He scored in the team's final preseason game, and that could be a sign of things to come this season.