What if Orlando City SC made a player transaction and no one understood? That happened recently.
A recent player transaction made by Orlando City SC opened an old wound and at the same time answered a grim and important question. The transaction moves goalkeeper Carlos Mercado from Orlando City B to the first team.
When Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi explained that the player move rewarded Mercado’s performance. But he also acknowledged something that has worried club officials for much of the season.
The incident was in July. Starting goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was away on international duty.
New York City winger Malachi Jones attacked the Orlando City net in the 18th minute of a match. He was called offside, but the play continued due to MLS guidelines.
Jones and active goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar both suffered a break of their right legs. Both underwent successful surgery for breaks in the tibia and fibula. Both surgeries were successful. But for Stajduhar the season ended.
From that moment, the Orlando City organization began searching for the strongest keeper backup for Gallese that they could find. They began intensified scouting of Mercado. The moment is right.
For Orlando City B this season, Mercado has been the main keeper. He’s put in 17 appearances, making 67 saves with one clean sheet. He has a 1.53 goals-against average. He arrives at the first team with a record of 8-4-5, including four victories in end-of-regulation shootouts – third-most in MLS NEXT Pro.
Mercado signed his contract with City B only this season. His performance skyrocketed immediately. He got a short-term look in August after only four appearances. He had already tallied 16 saves and a record of 2-1-1.
Scouting reports emphasize his quickly developing skillset as keeper, especially his concentration. He's signed to the first team with options through 2027.
Only a few short-termers get to spend serious time with the first team. Mercado is one of them. He’s earned it.
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