Orlando City bets on promise from the grassroots | OneFootball

Or, at least, Orlando City SC does not waste any time in reconfirming its bet on young talents. The newest bet by the club is Colin Guske, a 17-year-old midfielder who just signed a contract through 2027, with an option for 2028. Guske is a clear example of how integration between the Academy, Orlando City B (OCB), and the first team has been working out smoothly.

In 2024, the young player made his professional debut with Orlando City B in the MLS NEXT Pro league, recording 1 goal and 2 assists in 25 matches. Guske was the 2007-born player with the most minutes in the competition, a statistic that reflects the confidence placed in him by the coaching staff. With consistent performances and good results for Orlando City, it wasn't just the leadership who took notice but also the USMNT. Called into the U-19 and U-18 setups during the year, young midfielder Guske scored once in four appearances, underlining that his talent is not a border matter.

The club's executive vice president of soccer operations and general manager, Luiz Muzzi, was candid in explaining why Guske fits the bill for the first team: "Colin is just the latest example of a player who's made the most of our professional development pathway. He's benefited from the full integration between the Academy, OCB, and the first team at our training center.

The importance of Colin Guske in the present scenario

Securing Colin Guske for the first team isn't an isolated move; it's a strategic investment. Orlando City SC, fresh from an appearance in the Eastern Conference Final in 2024, has a competitive and experienced roster but knows that long-term success depends on renewing and strengthening its Academy pipeline. Guske is the face of the club's future. While bringing youth and energy to the midfield, he also carries the responsibility of being another symbol of the Lions' successful development program.

During the season, Orlando proved its strength, finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference with 52 points. Even though the team was eliminated by the New York Red Bulls, their performance confirmed that they are on the right track. At 17 years old, Guske has the potential to develop further within the competitive MLS environment.

Development and standout performances in MLS NEXT Pro

The numbers and performances that speak for themselves back Colin Guske's path to the first team. During the just-concluded season, Guske was one of the most consistent players in MLS NEXT Pro, fast becoming the leading stage for young talent in the United States. He not only led in minutes but also showed maturity and composure on the ball, which is not common at this age. His performance earned him a spot as a 2024 MLS NEXT All-Star, an honor reserved for the league's top talents.

Luiz Muzzi’s words make the club’s confidence clear: “His talent and potential for growth, both as a player and as a person, show a bright future, and we’re excited to have him on the first team next year.” This belief is supported by a well-structured environment where Guske has had the opportunity to grow alongside experienced professionals and under the watchful eye of the coaching staff.

A clear vision for the future: The contract until 2027, with an option to extend, underlines how serious the club considers the development of Guske. Now it is up to the player to prove himself on the pitch to such high expectations and earn a place in a team that has already proved its worth among the best in MLS.

Orlando City's decision to integrate Guske into the first team is not just about preparing for the future but also about trusting the foundation they have built. With his talent, discipline, and room for growth, Guske possesses all the tools to become a key figure in the club's journey going forward.