LUCA ORELLANO FC Cincinnati Forward #23 Performance Analysis and Season Highlights
Luca Orellano—remember the name, folks!—is quickly turning heads at FC Cincinnati as their promising forward wearing #23. Born in Álvarez, Argentina, Orellano brings a real spark to the club with his speed and technical flair. When he’s on the attack, you can feel the energy shift.
Fans have started to see why the front office locked him in with a long-term deal. He’s been lively on the right wing, and honestly, it’s hard not to get excited when he gets the ball at his feet.
At just 25 and standing 5’7″, Orellano hasn’t wasted any time making his mark in Major League Soccer. He’s scored goals, set up teammates, and—get this—he bagged the 2024 MLS Goal of the Year (details here). That’s not just hype; that’s results.
With Orellano in the mix, FC Cincinnati looks a lot more dangerous up front. Supporters can’t help but wonder just how much he’ll shape the rest of the season. His journey from Argentina to Cincinnati? It’s the kind of story fans love, and every match gives us another reason to tune in (profile here).
Contents
Profile of LUCA ORELLANO
Luca Orellano’s game is all about adaptability and vision. He’s become a real asset for FC Cincinnati, showing up with steady performances and a work rate that coaches rave about.
Personal Background
Orellano grew up in Álvarez, Argentina—a small town where soccer isn’t just a game, it’s life. He put in the hours from a young age, sharpening his technical skills and tactical sense. Argentina has a knack for producing top talent, and Orellano fits right in with that tradition.
He started his pro journey with Vélez Sarsfield, a big name back home. He quickly stood out as a dynamic winger. His path has been all about persistence and ambition. When he moved to Brazil to join Vasco da Gama, he faced new challenges and kept growing, setting the stage for this MLS breakthrough.
Orellano always talks about his family’s support. That background gave him a fierce competitive edge and a sense of responsibility you can see on the pitch.
Date of Birth and Age
Luca Orellano was born March 22, 2000, in Álvarez, Argentina. He’s 25 now, right in that sweet spot where experience and athletic prime start to meet.
At this age, he’s picked up experience both at home and abroad. He’s made the jump from youth prospect to a pro who impacts big matches. Having a birthday early in the year? Not a bad thing—he’s usually ready to go when the season kicks off.
Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 22, 2000 |
| Age | 25 |
| Place of Birth | Álvarez, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
Playing Style
Orellano thrives as a right winger, but he’s comfortable just about anywhere out wide. He’s got quick feet, agility, and dribbling skills that keep defenders guessing. Watch him move—he creates space and loves to take on defenders one-on-one.
He can cut inside or whip in a cross, so defenses can’t relax when he’s near the box. He’s got a knack for finishing, too, as his awards and league honors show. His decision-making? It’s sharp. He reads the game and adjusts to whatever tactics the coach throws at him.
He doesn’t just stay forward—Orellano tracks back to help out defensively. That blend of speed, skill, and vision has already made a difference for FC Cincinnati in tight spots. You can find more on his style at his FC Cincinnati player profile.
Professionalism and Development
Orellano’s career shows real professionalism and a hunger to improve. He broke through at Vélez Sarsfield, earning minutes and building his foundation. Moving to Vasco da Gama in Brazil? That wasn’t easy, but he adapted and picked up international experience.
Since joining FC Cincinnati—first on loan—Orellano has impressed with his discipline. He won the 2024 MLS Goal of the Year and was a Newcomer of the Year finalist. He even suited up for the 2024 MLS All-Star Game, which says a lot about his reputation.
Coaches and teammates talk about his steady effort and focus. Orellano keeps pushing forward, and the club rewarded him with a contract extension through 2029. That’s a big sign he’s central to Cincinnati’s plans. Check out his Wikipedia summary for more on his journey.
FC Cincinnati and Squad Integration
Orellano’s arrival at FC Cincinnati brought a left-footed spark from Argentina’s top leagues into MLS. He’s mixing international flair with the club’s big ambitions at TQL Stadium as they chase deep playoff runs heading into 2025.
Joining FC Cincinnati
Orellano joined FC Cincinnati from CR Vasco da Gama on loan, making it official before the 2024 MLS season. General manager Chris Albright pointed out his dynamic style and technical versatility. That fits Cincinnati’s recent approach—adding players who bring creativity and energy out wide.
The jump from Brazil’s Serie A to MLS meant Orellano had to adjust fast. Training at TQL Stadium and getting to know new teammates, he wasted no time fitting in. The club made sure he had the support to settle, showing they wanted the loan to succeed for everyone involved.
Role Within the Squad
Orellano lines up mostly as a right winger, using his left foot to cut inside and create danger. FC Cincinnati uses his speed to stretch defenses and deliver service into the box. He brings balance to the attack, and his style matches coach Pat Noonan’s focus on quick transitions and pressing.
Since arriving, Orellano has played regularly and earned plenty of praise. He links play, creates chances, and the staff counts on his work rate—he’s not shy about tracking back and putting in a shift on defense.
Key Stats with FC Cincinnati (2024 MLS Season):
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 22 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Minutes Played | 1,650 |
Contract Extension and Terms
In June 2024, FC Cincinnati locked up Orellano’s future with a contract extension through 2029. They used Targeted Allocation Money (TAM), which helps MLS teams bring in top talent without busting the salary cap.
That new deal shows how much the club values him—on and off the field. The extension means one of their most exciting attackers will be around through his prime. By moving quickly, Cincinnati avoided a bidding war with other clubs who might’ve tried to swoop in.
Option to Buy and Loan Deal
Orellano’s initial move to Ohio came as a loan from Vasco da Gama, with an option to buy. This setup let Cincinnati watch how he adjusted to MLS before making a permanent commitment.
It was a smart move—immediate help for the squad, but with financial flexibility. The purchase option, as team sources have shared, shows the club wants to build for the long haul. If he keeps delivering, Cincinnati can make the deal permanent and lock in their attacking plans (more at FC Cincinnati acquire Luca Orellano on loan).
Position Versatility and Tactical Impact
Orellano’s skills let him play all over the attack and midfield. That gives FC Cincinnati tactical flexibility and makes them tough to predict.
Main Positions Played
He’s at his best on the right wing, but he’s comfortable on the left or anywhere up front. Coaches have used him in different spots, giving the attack more variety. In Cincinnati, he’s mostly played as a forward or winger, shifting based on what the team needs or who they’re up against.
Here’s a quick look at his 2024-25 appearances by position:
| Position | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Winger | 17 | 5 | 7 |
| Left Winger | 9 | 2 | 3 |
| Attacking Midfield | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| Right Wingback | 2 | 0 | 1 |
His ability to switch roles makes him a go-to option for different tactical setups. He can change things up from one game to the next—or even mid-match.
Right Winger and Left Winger Roles
As a right winger, Orellano uses his left foot to cut in and either shoot or set up teammates. He’s got the pace to push defenders back, and his dribbling makes him a real handful one-on-one. Out wide, his crossing creates chances for the strikers.
When he’s out left, his approach shifts. Sometimes he hugs the line to stretch the field, other times he drifts inside to combine with the midfield. He’s mainly left-footed, but he can cross and shoot with both. That unpredictability makes life tough for defenders—they can’t force him into a weak spot, and that’s led to some big assists and goals.
His experience on both wings lets FC Cincinnati move him around to exploit matchups. If the team needs creativity or a direct threat, Orellano’s the guy.
Attacking Midfield and Right Wingback
He’s also spent time as an attacking midfielder in a few games. In that role, he looks to thread passes through the defense and link up play from the back to the front. His agility and ball control help him find space, even when things get crowded.
Occasionally, he’s played as a right wingback. That’s a different challenge—he has to defend more and cover extra ground. Here, his speed helps him recover, close down passing lanes, and launch quick counters. The extra defensive responsibility isn’t easy, but his energy and movement fit the bill.
This versatility lets FC Cincinnati adjust tactics without making big changes. Each spot taps into a different part of Orellano’s game, giving the team a new look whenever he’s on the pitch. For more info, check his career breakdown at FC Cincinnati and complete stats.
Career Path and Previous Clubs
Luca Orellano’s career so far shows steady growth in South American football. He made stops at Argentina’s Vélez Sarsfield and Brazil’s Vasco da Gama before landing in Major League Soccer with FC Cincinnati. Each step brought more responsibility, more competition, and more chances to shine.
Vélez Sarsfield Journey
Let’s take you back to where it all started. Orellano kicked off his senior career with Vélez Sarsfield—a club in Argentina that’s got a real knack for producing young stars.
He worked his way up through the youth system and, at just 18, made his first team debut in the Primera División during the 2018-2019 season. That’s pretty young for a forward in a league like that.
Early on, he flashed that classic left-footed skill and versatility. You could see he had the technical chops to make defenders sweat.
His breakout? Oh, that came during the 2019-2020 campaign. Orellano became a regular, popping up with assists and goals.
He loved to cut inside from the wing, creating chances and keeping defenders guessing. That quick burst and willingness to take players on made him a real asset for Vélez.
Here’s a quick look at his numbers with Vélez Sarsfield:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-2019 | 7 | 1 | 1 |
| 2019-2020 | 19 | 3 | 2 |
| 2020-2021 | 26 | 4 | 4 |
| 2021-2022 | 28 | 5 | 5 |
That steady production at Vélez really set him up for his next big move.
Vasco da Gama Experience
In January 2023, Orellano signed with Vasco da Gama, a giant in Brazilian football. That transfer turned heads, both for the step up in league quality and the bright lights of Brazilian media.
Moving to Brazil meant he’d face tougher opposition and a whole new tactical world. At Vasco, coaches mostly played him as a right winger, but he sometimes switched to the left or even played centrally.
Orellano wasted no time adjusting to Brazil’s fast-paced game. He brought energy and depth out wide, notching goals and assists—sometimes in ways that didn’t show up on the stat sheet.
Sure, his numbers weren’t quite as flashy as in Argentina, but you could feel his impact in the way Vasco moved the ball and attacked. Supporters and coaches noticed his calm under pressure.
Brazilian Série A Competition
Now, Brazilian Série A? That’s a real test for any player coming from Argentina.
The league’s got everything: teams that love to keep the ball, others that hit you on the break. Orellano had to grow his game—no choice.
He went up against some of the continent’s best defenders, working on his movement and learning how to find space against veteran back lines. The tempo’s higher, the games are more physical, and you’ve got to make decisions fast.
Facing clubs like Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Corinthians, he gained some serious experience. That adaptability helped boost his value on Transfermarkt and got MLS scouts talking.
Copa Libertadores Appearances
Orellano’s time at Vélez included a shot at the Copa Libertadores—the crown jewel of South American club football. That’s a big deal for a young player.
He debuted in the Libertadores while still at Vélez and played in some high-pressure matches. Those games tested his nerves and tactical discipline.
Even when he came off the bench, he got a taste of the intensity and passion that define the competition. Those moments accelerated his development.
Performing on that stage proved he could handle the heat. That exposure opened doors for him in Brazil and, eventually, led him to FC Cincinnati.
Performance in the MLS Season
Luca Orellano stepped into FC Cincinnati and, wow, did he make an impression. He didn’t just put up numbers—he shaped the way the team played.
He scored important goals, created chances, and turned heads all across the league.
Key Contributions for FC Cincinnati
Orellano became a driving force in Cincinnati’s attack. Wearing the number 23, he started most games and quickly became one of the club’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
He combined speed, control, and vision to break open defenses. Orellano linked up well with teammates, connecting midfield to attack.
He drew fouls, kept pressure on opponents, and always seemed to be available for a pass or a run into the box.
That team-first attitude? It helped Cincinnati rack up wins and lock in a strong playoff spot.
Goals, Assists, and Highlights
Let’s talk stats from his 2024 MLS campaign:
| Stat | MLS Regular Season |
|---|---|
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Playoff Goals | 1 |
Ten goals and seven assists in the regular season—he did it all. Add a playoff goal against New York City FC, and you’ve got a player who shows up when it counts.
The highlight reels? Orellano scored from all over, inside and outside the box. He even picked up “Goal of the Matchday” awards with some highlight-reel volleys and quick one-timers.
MLS Goal of the Year and Awards
Orellano’s goals got people talking. He earned multiple “MLS Goal of the Matchday” nominations and even jumped into the Goal of the Year conversation.
He had a knack for scoring when it mattered and loved the big moments. Fans shared clips of his goals everywhere, and those highlight plays earned him plenty of post-season votes.
But it wasn’t just about scoring. Orellano’s all-around play drew praise, setting a new standard for attacking players in MLS.
Notable Matches and Opponents
If you want to understand Orellano’s impact, just check out his key matches. He faced tough opponents and thrived in high-pressure atmospheres.
Game 1 Victory against NYCFC
Orellano’s FC Cincinnati debut against NYCFC? What a way to start.
He brought energy and sharp decision-making up front. He helped break down a tight NYCFC defense with smart passes and relentless pressure.
Orellano recovered possession after turnovers and kept the attack moving. Here’s a quick stat line from that match:
| Statistic | Orellano |
|---|---|
| Minutes played | 89 |
| Key Passes | 3 |
| Total Shots | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Fouls Drawn | 2 |
His clever assist set up the decisive goal. That first game showed fans he was ready for the MLS spotlight.
Matches at Stade Saputo
Stade Saputo in Montreal? That’s a tough place for visiting players.
Orellano’s trips up north really put his resilience to the test. The stadium’s atmosphere and fast turf forced him to tweak his game.
He made bold runs down the wing, stretching Montréal’s back line. His left-footed crosses hit the mark more often than not.
Orellano tracked back to help his fullbacks and close down space. His work rate stood out, covering more ground than most attackers.
The physical battles in midfield got intense, but he never backed down.
CF Montréal Encounters
Facing CF Montréal always requires focus. Their tactical setup puts extra pressure on forwards like Orellano.
He adjusted quickly in tight spaces, finding gaps in their defense. The stat sheet shows plenty of duels won and completed passes in these matchups.
In big moments, Orellano either sparked attacks or held the ball to slow Montréal’s press. His mix of tactical smarts and technical skill became a key part of Cincinnati’s approach.
Teammates and On-Field Partnerships
On the field, Orellano’s game comes alive thanks to his chemistry with fellow attackers. Those quick connections make Cincinnati’s attack unpredictable and tough to defend.
Yuya Kubo Collaboration
Orellano and Yuya Kubo have built a strong partnership in the attacking half. Kubo, with his versatility and quick thinking, links defense to attack.
Kubo’s safe ball control lets Orellano read the play and find space. Several goals this year started with Kubo feeding Orellano, who used his speed to get behind defenders.
Kubo’s movement pulls midfielders wide, opening lanes for Orellano to drive toward goal or slip a pass. That partnership is huge when Cincinnati faces high-pressure teams.
Key Statistics:
| Player | Assists to Orellano | Key Passes per Game | Combined Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yuya Kubo | 4 | 1.9 | 8 |
Orellano’s runs off Kubo’s shoulder keep defenses honest. This connection powers much of Cincinnati’s attack.
Corey Baird Partnership
The Orellano-Baird combo gives Cincinnati options across both wings. Baird’s direct style and tactical smarts make him a perfect match for Orellano on the left.
Orellano loves to cut inside, while Baird stretches things out wide. When Baird overlaps, Orellano finds space to drift into the box or set up a cutback.
Their movement off the ball creates space and forces defenders into tough spots.
Key Statistics:
| Player | Goals Assisted by Orellano | Times Linked for Goals | Open Play Chances Created |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corey Baird | 2 | 5 | 12 |
When these two link up, Cincinnati can switch gears in a hurry. It’s been a difference-maker, especially against packed defenses.
Fan Experience and Ticket Information
Want to watch Orellano and FC Cincinnati in action? Fans have plenty of ways to grab tickets, and it’s never been easier to catch a match at TQL Stadium.
Tickets Availability
Home games are hot tickets right now, especially with Orellano and the team’s recent form. Big matches can sell out fast, so you’ll want to jump in early.
Fans can buy single-game tickets, season tickets, and group packages straight from the official FC Cincinnati website. Season tickets are a hit, offering perks like early entry and special events.
Group deals come with discounts for larger parties—great for youth clubs or company outings.
Here’s a handy ticket guide:
| Ticket Type | Perks | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Single Game | Choose any match, flexible seating | FC Cincinnati website, authorized partners |
| Season Ticket | Exclusive benefits, best seating options | FC Cincinnati Season Ticket page |
| Group Packages | Discounts, special experiences | Contact sales office or online |
Some matches offer family bundles or special promos, especially early in the season or on weekdays. If you’re thinking about going, don’t wait too long—these tickets move fast!
Vivid Seats and Other Sales Platforms
When official tickets vanish, fans usually scramble to find another way in. Vivid Seats jumps out as a top secondary platform, giving people a secure way to snag tickets for sold-out games or those last-minute plans that always seem to pop up.
You can browse verified tickets by price, seat, or even the match date. Sometimes, buyers stumble onto resale options for those impossible-to-find fixtures—maybe a playoff or a big rivalry—that the club just can’t offer anymore.
Vivid Seats lays out prices clearly and backs every purchase with a guarantee. That kind of peace of mind? Pretty important if you’re dropping serious cash.
Ticketmaster Resale and StubHub also make the list of trusted sites. Both have built a reputation for reliability and solid customer protection over the years.
Fans really should steer clear of sketchy third-party vendors. Nobody wants to get burned by a scam or end up with a fake ticket.
Stick with platforms that spell out their refund and support policies. It’s the best way to make sure your matchday goes off without a hitch.
