GILBERTO FLORES FC Cincinnati Defender #3 – Key Strengths and 2025 Season Impact

Alright, FC Cincinnati fans, buckle up—there’s a fresh face in the backline this season. Paraguayan defender Gilberto Flores, now wearing number 3, steps onto the pitch with youth international experience and some seriously sharp defensive skills.

At 6’0″, Flores brings both physical presence and a knack for smart positioning to Cincinnati’s defense. You can’t teach that kind of instinct, folks.

Flores kicked off his pro career with Libertad in Paraguay before heading to Major League Soccer. People already praise his calm under pressure.

Now at 22, he’s locked in with FC Cincinnati through 2027, and there’s even an option to keep him around longer. For a club aiming to build on recent wins, landing a reliable defender like Flores could be a real difference-maker.

Here’s a quick snapshot of Gilberto Flores:

Attribute	Details
Position	Defender (Center Back)
Club	FC Cincinnati
Jersey Number	3
Age	22
Nationality	Paraguayan
Height	6’0″ (1.80m)
Previous Club	Libertad (Paraguay)

You can check out his FC Cincinnati player profile or just watch him in action this season.

Profile of Gilberto Flores

Gilberto Flores jumps off the page as a promising defender for FC Cincinnati. His background and build shape his play, and he brings a lot to the field for both club and country.

Date of Birth and Birthplace

Flores, or Gilberto Ivan Flores Melgarejo if you want the full name, was born April 1, 2003, in Asunción, Paraguay. He’s got that classic South American football DNA—sharp instincts, and he grew up in one of the continent’s soccer hotbeds.

Asunción’s known for churning out talent, and Flores fits right in. The city’s soccer culture definitely rubbed off on him, shaping his technical skills and tactical smarts.

Height and Physical Attributes

Standing at 6’0″, Flores has the build you want in a defender. He matches up well in the air and brings some real bite to set pieces.

He’s not the tallest guy out there, but he’s got a strong core and stays quick on his feet. That mobility lets him stick with fast attackers or jump on tough passes.

Here’s a look at his physical profile:

Attribute	Value
Height	6′ 0″ (183 cm)
Weight	Not listed
Dominant Foot	Not specified
Build	Athletic

Flores can shift directions in a flash. That’s huge for a defender who needs to react on the fly.

Playing Position

Flores holds down the center back spot for FC Cincinnati, rocking the number 3 shirt. Center backs need both physical tools and nerves of steel.

He honed his game in South America with Libertad, getting senior-level reps before making the jump to MLS. Now, he’s expected to anchor Cincinnati’s back line, organize the defense, and shut down attacks.

He’s comfortable on the ball and reads the game well. That’s why coaches trust him to handle pressure and make the right call in tight spots.

International Talent and Recognition

Flores has already suited up for Paraguay’s U23 squad. That’s no small feat—it means national team coaches see something special in him.

International matches give him valuable experience against all kinds of playing styles. His youth team performances hint at a future with the senior squad.

Scouts and coaches point out his poise and maturity, which bodes well for his international prospects. If you want to dig deeper, check out the FC Cincinnati player page or peek at his stats on Wikipedia.

Early Life and Youth Career

Flores began his soccer journey in Paraguay, learning the ropes at clubs that know how to develop talent. Those early years paved the way for his career as a professional defender.

Youth Clubs and Development

Growing up in Asunción, Flores trained in local academies that focused on discipline and tactical awareness. He joined Club Libertad’s youth setup, which has a real reputation for building strong defenders.

Libertad’s known for developing homegrown players and promoting them to the senior squad. Flores stood out as a teen, impressing coaches with his reading of the game and steady touch on the ball.

He trained alongside future pros, picking up practical skills and building mental toughness. His coaches loved his consistency and ability to adapt to tougher competition.

Key Youth Development Highlights:

• Origin: Asunción, Paraguay
• Main academy: Club Libertad
• Strengths identified: Positioning, maturity, work ethic

Training at Libertad’s academy played a big role in shaping how Flores approaches defense today.

Paraguayan Primera División Experience

Before heading overseas, Flores got his first taste of senior soccer at Club Libertad in the Paraguayan Primera División. That league’s no joke—top tier, tough competition.

Flores made several first-team appearances for Libertad, showing steady progress every time he stepped on the field. He didn’t get a ton of minutes—Libertad’s roster runs deep—but when he played, he impressed with disciplined defending.

Here’s a look at his Libertad stats:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Position
2022-2024	Libertad	7	0	Defender

Facing veteran attackers, Flores learned how to handle physical play and ramp up his tactical awareness. That experience set him up for the challenges ahead.

Professional Career Journey

Flores’ journey from Paraguay to Major League Soccer is all about steady progress and key moments. He’s handled big transitions and picked up valuable experience at every stop.

First Professional Division Appearances

Flores started making waves in Paraguay’s top league while he was still a teenager. He racked up over 40 first-division appearances, showing maturity beyond his years.

Teammates and opponents respected his positioning and work ethic. He didn’t shy away from big games, either.

Take a look at his senior league stats in Paraguay:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals
2022-2024	Libertad	7	0
2021-2022	Other clubs	33+	0

He played in league matches and cup games, learning to adapt quickly to higher levels of play. Those consistent minutes proved he was ready for a bigger stage.

Transfer to FC Cincinnati

Flores made the move to FC Cincinnati as part of the club’s push to bring in young international talent. He signed through 2027, with options for two more years—clearly, the team’s betting on his future.

He came in under the U22 Initiative, which lets MLS clubs sign young players without breaking the bank. Cincinnati wanted a defender who could help right away and grow with the squad.

Coaches have already noticed how well Flores handles pressure and adjusts to the MLS style—faster, more physical than what he saw before.

Previous Clubs

Before Cincinnati, Flores played for Libertad and Club Sportivo Trinidense in Paraguay. Those stops gave him valuable experience in league and tournament play.

At Libertad, he learned the value of strong defensive organization. With Club Sportivo Trinidense, he sharpened his tactical awareness and played in key matches.

Flores also represented Paraguay at the youth international level, picking up experience that helped him prepare for the move abroad. Each club along the way built up the foundation he’s using now in MLS.

Role at FC Cincinnati

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1IshurgAKA

Gilberto Flores has become a real presence in the FC Cincinnati lineup, folks. He’s brought some steel to the back line and, as a young Paraguayan defender, his technical skills and awareness are already making waves at TQL Stadium.

Joining the Team

Flores arrived in Cincinnati after a transfer from Club Libertad, and at just 22, he was seen as a big piece to shore up the central defense. He signed on through 2027, with the club holding options for 2028 and 2029. That’s a pretty clear sign they see him as part of the long-term plan.

He took the number 3 shirt and wasted no time getting used to MLS. Coaches have pointed out his composure and intelligence, especially for someone his age.

Flores also brings international experience as a Paraguay U23 player. Fans and coaches at TQL Stadium are keeping a close eye on his progress, hoping he can help tighten up the team’s defensive structure.

Flores’ Contract Highlights

Detail	Information
Club	FC Cincinnati
Squad Number	3
Contract End	2027 (options: 2028, 2029)
Previous Club	Libertad
International	Paraguay U23

Defensive Instincts and Attributes

Let me tell you, Flores plays center-back with a savvy that’s hard to teach. He relies on sharp positioning and anticipation to snuff out attacks before they get rolling.

He’s six feet tall and makes that frame count, especially in aerial duels and those gritty one-on-one moments. Coaches can’t stop talking about his alertness and knack for reading the game—he intercepts passes before opponents even know what hit them.

Flores doesn’t just defend; he helps FC Cincinnati build from the back with some real quality passing. He’ll stay cool under pressure, making smart decisions whether he’s clearing the danger or picking out a teammate.

His right foot gives the defense a nice balance, fitting right into the team’s setup. That’s the kind of thing that makes a back line click.

Flores brings stamina and tactical discipline, which you absolutely need for those high-octane MLS nights at TQL Stadium. He’s not one for wild tackles—he prefers to control space, calmly shutting down opponents.

Every game, he’s growing, earning more trust from teammates, and solidifying his spot as a reliable piece of the FC Cincinnati defense. Want more on his background? Check out FC Cincinnati’s official Gilberto Flores profile.

Key Partnerships and Teammates

Flores’s role as a center-back really hinges on chemistry with the rest of the back line. How he fits with established veterans and leans on club leadership shapes his growth and, honestly, the whole defense’s outlook.

Defensive Unit: Miazga, Robinson, Hadebe, and Hagglund

He’s joining a group anchored by some serious experience: Matt Miazga, Miles Robinson, Teenage Hadebe, and Nick Hagglund. Each of these guys brings something different to the table.

Miazga reads the game and keeps the defense organized. Robinson? He’s got wheels—his speed on recovery runs is top tier.

Hadebe brings power in the air and stays cool under pressure. Hagglund is the utility guy, with leadership and the ability to slot in wherever needed.

FC Cincinnati Defensive Core (2025):

Player	Position	Strength	Years Pro
Matt Miazga	CB	Positioning, leadership	10
Miles Robinson	CB	Speed, 1-on-1 defending	7
Teenage Hadebe	CB	Aerial ability, calmness	8
Nick Hagglund	CB/RB	Versatility, work rate	11

Playing next to these guys, Flores gets stability and plenty of mentorship. The coaching staff rotates the lineup, which gives him a chance to pick up different styles and adjust his own positioning for whatever the match throws at him.

Impact of Chris Albright

Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati’s GM, is a big piece of the puzzle for Flores. As a former defender, Albright knows what he’s looking for and targets young internationals like Flores to blend youth with proven MLS talent.

Albright works to build depth and keep a winning culture alive. By bringing in players like Robinson and Hadebe, he stirs up healthy competition and balance in the back.

Flores steps into a system where everyone knows what’s expected, and leadership is always present. Albright’s MLS experience gives Flores a clear path to develop.

The club’s new signings, picked out by Albright, create a defensive environment that challenges Flores but also has his back. He’s in a group that values talking, structure, and doing the little things right.

International and Youth National Team Experience

Flores has really climbed the ladder with Paraguay’s youth squads, building up a solid international résumé. He’s made his mark with both the U20 and U23 teams, and he even played in the 2024 Summer Olympics—that’s no small feat.

La Albirroja Youth Representation

Flores started turning heads with Paraguay’s youth teams as a teenager. Regular call-ups to the U20 and U23 squads gave him a taste of international competition, and his defensive instincts set him apart.

By the end of 2023, he’d racked up over 30 youth international appearances for Paraguay. Most came with the U20 and U23 teams, where he anchored the defense and played with a maturity beyond his age.

Coaches often pointed out his calmness under pressure and his ability to lead from the back.

Paraguay Youth National Team Stats for Gilberto Flores

Team	Caps	Goals	First Appearance
U20	11	0	2022
U23	19	0	2023

His steady presence in training camps showed the faith coaches had in him. It set him up for even bigger opportunities down the line.

Olympic Games and Paraguay National Team Involvement

Flores became a mainstay for Paraguay at the 2024 Summer Olympics. He faced off against some of the world’s best young players as a key part of the U23 squad.

Throughout the tournament, Flores delivered steady defending and showed he could lead from the back. Playing at the Olympics brought him global exposure and tested him against all sorts of playing styles.

Coaches counted on him to keep things steady in tough matches. His performances made it clear he could handle the pressure of big-time international soccer.

Flores’s Olympic journey capped off years of hard work and development. Now, his next step could be with Paraguay’s senior team as he keeps moving forward.

Competitions and Honors

Flores wasted no time making his mark after joining FC Cincinnati from Paraguay. He’s already got a solid domestic record and some valuable international experience under his belt.

MLS and Domestic Achievements

Flores came to FC Cincinnati for the 2025 MLS season after playing with Club Libertad in Paraguay. He quickly locked down a starting spot, rocking the number 3 shirt and earning praise for his clearances, tackles, and awareness.

Here’s a quick look at some of his MLS stats with Cincinnati:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes Played	Goals	Assists	Clean Sheets
2025	25	23	2,060	0	1	10

Flores played a big role in the team’s clean sheets throughout the regular season. He stepped up in tight games and high-pressure moments, showing why the coaches trust him at the back.

If you want more on his MLS journey, check out Gilberto Flores’s FC Cincinnati profile.

International Club Tournaments

Before MLS, Flores tested himself with Club Libertad in top South American competitions like Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. Libertad didn’t go deep in those tournaments during his stint, but Flores got to face some of the continent’s best attackers.

He played against historic clubs from Argentina, Brazil, and beyond. Those matches helped him develop poise and awareness early in his career.

While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his defensive work stood out to coaches and scouts. Now with FC Cincinnati, Flores is gearing up for the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

That’s going to be a big test, matching up against top clubs from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Cincinnati’s international ambitions will only make Flores’s experience more valuable. For a deeper dive into his international career, see Flores’s Wikipedia page.

2025 Season Tickets, Schedule, and Fan Engagement

FC Cincinnati is gearing up for another electric season, and fans have more ways than ever to catch the action at TQL Stadium. Tickets are already moving, and the schedule’s packed with must-see games—including a big opener against an Eastern Conference rival.

How to Get FC Cincinnati Tickets

Season tickets are hot right now, and with the team’s momentum, they’re going fast. If you want the best seats—like right at midfield or behind the net—you’ve got to act early.

The club sells tickets online at their official website and at the stadium box office.

Single-game tickets are up for grabs too, but they disappear quick for the big matchups. Group rates are great for families or supporters’ groups, and premium packages offer some sweet perks like exclusive lounges.

Here’s a quick breakdown of ticket options:

Ticket Type	Benefits
Season Ticket	Best value, reserved seat, perks
Single-Game Ticket	Flexible, choose any match
Group Rate	Discounted, block seating
Premium Package	Exclusive access, amenities

2025 Schedule and Key Matches

The 2025 season kicks off with a bang—home opener on Saturday, February 22, against the New York Red Bulls at 7:30 p.m. ET. That’s a statement game to start the year.

The schedule is stacked with home games where stars like Flores will look to make an impact. Make sure to circle rivalry games and clashes with top conference teams.

Every match brings a different vibe, and Flores anchoring the defense is something fans won’t want to miss. You can check out the full 2025 schedule online, filter by date or opponent, and plan your visits ahead.

Latest News, Stats, and Media

Gilberto Flores wasted no time making waves with FC Cincinnati. The young Paraguayan defender’s transfer and early performances have turned heads across MLS, and everyone’s watching to see how high he can climb.

Recent News Updates

Flores officially joined Cincinnati in early 2025 after weeks of rumors and negotiations. The club landed him after reports from both local and Paraguayan media pointed to advanced talks.

His arrival was a big move for Cincinnati, who wanted to shore up the back line after a busy offseason. They paid around $2 million for him—a real statement of intent.

Flores jumped straight into preseason, taking over at center-back. Analysts have noticed how quickly he’s adapted to MLS’s pace, and local outlets like Cincinnati Soccer Talk and the MLS official site are all over his progress.

Player Stats and Analytics

Flores wears number 3, stands at 6’0″, and anchors the defense as a center-back. He’s got a strong physical presence and a reliable right foot, giving Cincinnati’s back line an edge.

At just 22, he’s already showing off disciplined positioning and smart passing. Here’s a look at some of his stats this season:

Stat	Value
Appearances	15
Starts	13
Minutes Played	1,140
Tackles	32
Clearances	49
Interceptions	19
Passing Accuracy	86%
Goals	1

Flores also got the call to Paraguay’s U-23 national team, adding more shine to his profile.

Video Highlights

You can see Flores’s calm under fire in his early FC Cincinnati highlights. The club and fans have shared clips of him making clutch tackles in the box and reading plays to cut out danger.

There’s even a moment where he made a last-second goal-line clearance to preserve a win—talk about nerves of steel. Fans love his poise and how he starts attacks with sharp passes from the back.

If you want to catch more highlights, check out the FC Cincinnati player page for Gilberto Flores.

Notable Opponents and Matches

Alright, folks, let’s talk about Gilberto Flores and the kind of competition he’s gone up against with FC Cincinnati. The guy’s battled some seriously tough clubs out there.

You watch him in those big games? You can really see his defensive strengths on display. He reads the game well, always seems to know where to be, and adjusts on the fly.

Honestly, Flores just has this knack for making smart decisions under pressure. If you love tactical awareness, he’s your guy.

Games Against Colo-Colo, New York Red Bulls, and FC Motagua

Flores remembers facing Colo-Colo—and wow, those forwards really bring the heat. They’re quick, they’re strong, and they force you to stay sharp every single minute. He stuck tight in one-on-ones and kept his backline in sync, barking out orders and making sure everyone stayed alert.

These matches? They cranked up his game. You could feel the intensity on the pitch, and Flores definitely rose to the challenge.

Now, when FC Cincinnati lined up against the New York Red Bulls, Flores found himself right in the middle of their relentless high press. Under all that pressure, he didn’t panic—he just cleared the ball when he needed to and stayed calm.

The numbers tell the story: around 6 clearances per game, winning most of his battles in the air. The game log? 24 clearances and 5 tackles so far in the 2025 season, and those New York games really stand out.

Against FC Motagua, you could see Flores’s instincts take over. He read the game well, cutting out passes and shutting down attacks before they got dangerous.

Highlights from that match show him making all the right moves, and FC Cincinnati walked away with a clean sheet. That’s the kind of defending coaches love to see.

Opponent	Clearances	Tackles	Cards	Minutes Played
Colo-Colo	5	2	0	90
New York Red Bulls	8	3	1	90
FC Motagua	6	1	0	90

Flores keeps showing why he’s becoming such a reliable presence at the back for FC Cincinnati.