Orlando City SC faced a challenging 2025 season, missing the MLS playoffs after finishing 10th in the Eastern Conference [6]. This ended a 15-season streak of postseason appearances, marking a significant setback for the club [6]. Despite the team's struggles, several players emerged as bright spots, offering hope for the future [8].
Key Moments and Standout Performances
The first round of the 2025 MLS playoffs was filled with drama [4]. Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami defeated Nashville SC [4]. The Philadelphia Union also advanced, winning on penalties after a 2-2 draw against the Chicago Fire [4]. While Orlando City wasn't part of the playoff action, goalkeeper Javier Otero's journey was noteworthy [15]. Otero, a Homegrown Player, signed with the first team in 2023 and served as the third-string goalkeeper [15]. Although *The Mane Land* gave Otero an incomplete rating for 2025, his potential remains a talking point [8].
Another bright spot was the emergence of 17-year-old midfielder, Caraballo [8]. After limited appearances in 2024, Caraballo became a regular for Orlando City B in 2025, playing 999 minutes and contributing two goals and four assists [11]. He debuted with the first team in a 4-2 win against Toronto FC, becoming one of the club's youngest players [11]. Alex Freeman was also nominated for MLS Young Player of the Year [3].
League and Club Developments
MLS NEXT Pro continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap between youth and professional ranks, providing a platform for young players like Caraballo to develop [18, 11]. Sporting Kansas City announced its roster moves following the season [2]. Meanwhile, in Central Florida, preparations are underway for county and municipal elections on November 4 [1].
Off the field, Inter&Co Stadium, home to Orlando City and the Orlando Pride, saw a man found guilty of an arson incident that occurred in 2024 [17]. The Orlando Pride had two players nominated for the 2025 FIFPRO World 11 [13].
TL;DR
- Orlando City missed the MLS playoffs in 2025, ending a 15-season streak [6].
- Young players like Caraballo and Alex Freeman emerged as promising talents [8, 3].
- MLS NEXT Pro is helping bridge the gap between youth and professional soccer [18].
- Javier Otero's future with Orlando City remains uncertain as his contract expires [14].