Ondřej Lingr Houston Dynamo FC Midfielder #9 Joins MLS With High Expectations

Alright folks, if you’re keeping tabs on Houston Dynamo FC, you’ve got a new name to remember: Ondřej Lingr, the midfielder rocking #9. Lingr, a Czech Republic international, landed in Houston in March 2025 after a strong run with Slavia Prague. He jumped right in as a Designated Player for Dynamo, and that’s no small feat.

His European football experience brings a fresh edge to Houston’s midfield. You’ll notice Lingr’s impact right away—he’s not shy about making his presence felt.

This guy’s played over 250 club matches in Europe, bagging 55 goals and chipping in 14 assists with MFK Karviná and Slavia Prague. Now, he’s bringing that attacking flair and technical touch to Major League Soccer. If you’re wondering who can help Houston take the next step, keep your eyes on Lingr.

Statistic	Career Total
Appearances	258
Goals	55
Assists	14

Get set to watch this midfielder shape Dynamo’s attack and give them a real boost in the coming matches. Want more on Lingr’s move to Houston? Here’s the official team announcement.

Ondřej Lingr at Houston Dynamo FC

Lingr’s arrival injected new energy and experience into Houston Dynamo FC. He came in as a designated player, and his early-season performances turned some heads.

Joining Houston Dynamo FC

Houston Dynamo FC made waves when they signed Ondřej Lingr in March 2025. That move kicked off a big new chapter for both the player and the club.

The Dynamo secured Lingr on a full transfer from SK Slavia Prague, one of the Czech Republic’s top teams. He joined at 26, already battle-tested from European competitions.

His European numbers speak volumes: 55 goals, 14 assists, and 258 appearances across all competitions. Houston handed him a contract through June 2028, with options that could stretch to 2029.

Lingr showed his commitment from the jump. The Dynamo clearly wanted to boost their midfield creativity and goal threat. You could feel the excitement at BBVA Stadium as Lingr signed and got ready to wear the No. 9 shirt.

Designated Player Status and Role

Lingr didn’t waste time—he stepped right in as a Designated Player (DP), which is a big deal in MLS. That DP tag means the club’s banking on him to deliver.

The DP rule lets clubs sign stars outside the salary cap, and Houston went all-in on this attacking midfielder who’s proven himself in Europe. They want Lingr to drive the attack, plain and simple.

He works mainly as a central or attacking midfielder, finding space, linking up with forwards, and always looking for that killer pass.

Key Stats for Lingr (prior to Houston move):

Statistic	Total
Appearances	258
Goals	55
Assists	14

Those numbers? That’s why Houston sees him as the engine of their offense. He’s here to score, connect play, and set the tempo. Dynamo fans are hungry for progress, and Lingr’s right in the thick of it.

Notable Performances and Matchday 9 Impact

Lingr wasted no time making his mark. On Matchday 9, in a tense battle with Austin FC, he really showed what he’s about.

He controlled possession, created chances, and kept Houston calm when the pressure was on. His passing and vision brought a new spark to the midfield.

The chemistry with his teammates was obvious. Lingr hit accurate passes and made a few decisive moves in dangerous spots.

That match highlighted exactly why Houston chased him. The Dynamo looked sharper, more balanced, and it helped them grab some valuable points.

You watch Lingr, and you see him lift the pace, link up with attackers, and use his European experience to make smart decisions. His impact in games like the Austin FC clash shows just how vital he is to Houston’s plans.

Player Profile and Positions

Ondřej Lingr brings a rare mix of technical skill, tactical smarts, and serious adaptability to Houston Dynamo FC. He’s a midfielder with a proven eye for goal, someone comfortable across the entire attacking line, and he’s got the work rate to get it done on both sides of the ball.

Attacking Midfield Strengths

As an attacking midfielder, Lingr brings creativity and direct goal involvement. He spots key passes in tight spaces, and his close control makes him a real threat near the box.

His off-the-ball movement opens up space for teammates, keeping defenders on their toes.

He’s not just setting up others—he finishes, too. With 55 goals and 14 assists in over 250 European games, Lingr knows how to time his runs and finish from deep.

With Dynamo, he’s filling that No. 10 role, linking midfield and attack, making smart choices under pressure, and testing keepers from range.

Stat	Total
Club Appearances	258
Goals	55
Assists	14
Preferred Position	CAM (Central Attacking Midfield)

You get a player who balances risk and composure, always looking to elevate the team’s attack.

Versatility: Left Winger and Right Winger

Lingr’s versatility is a huge plus for Houston. He can slot in as a left or right winger without missing a beat.

On the left, he loves to cut inside on his right foot, which creates shooting angles and drags defenders away from the middle.

Put him on the right, and he stretches the field, slipping into spaces between defenders and opening up lanes for overlapping runs. His pace and stamina let him press high, causing turnovers in dangerous spots.

Coaches appreciate his tactical awareness. He reads the game well and adjusts to different setups. For Houston, that means more options in attack, no matter who they’re facing.

Midfield Contributions

Lingr’s not just about attack—he helps defensively, too. He intercepts passes, blocks lanes, and jumps in during defensive transitions.

He tracks back, hustles, and fights to win the ball when Houston loses it. On the ball, he keeps possession ticking with quick, simple passes.

When it’s time to counter, Lingr gets the ball moving upfield fast, flipping defense into attack in a flash. His ability to shift roles and read the game makes him a real asset in midfield.

You’ll see his impact in every phase—holding, releasing, and regaining possession. He’s not just a highlight-reel guy; he brings consistency to the center of the park.

For more on Lingr’s role and stats, here’s the official Houston Dynamo player profile.

Career Timeline and Previous Clubs

Ondřej Lingr’s journey as a midfielder comes from years in Czech football and strong showings with club and country. He rose through the ranks at smaller clubs before starring for some of the Czech Republic’s biggest names.

Early Career at MFK Havířov

Lingr started out at his hometown club, MFK Havířov. He learned the basics there, playing his youth football and picking up the fundamentals.

At Havířov, coaches quickly noticed his technical skills and drive. He developed tight ball control and vision—tools that set him up for bigger things.

He didn’t stick around at Havířov for long. As a teenager, his performances drew attention from bigger clubs, and that opened the door for his next step. For young Czech players, that first move often makes all the difference.

Development at MFK Karviná

Lingr took a big leap at MFK Karviná. He joined their youth setup, then broke into the first team, making his pro debut in 2017.

At Karviná, he became a regular. His passing and control improved every season, and he started scoring and assisting more.

Table: Key Stats at MFK Karviná

Years	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2017–2020	74	9	4

Karviná gave him the perfect stage to build confidence and show off his skills against top-tier competition. By the end, he looked ready for a bigger challenge.

Experience with FC Baník Ostrava

After Karviná, Lingr had a short stint with FC Baník Ostrava, mainly in friendlies and pre-season. He didn’t play league matches for the senior team.

Still, the experience gave him a taste of high-pressure environments. Ostrava’s got passionate fans and a tough reputation, so even a short stay helped Lingr learn from seasoned pros and different tactics.

That brief phase sharpened his professionalism and discipline. It set him up for what came next at Slavia Prague.

Success at SK Slavia Prague and Feyenoord

Moving to SK Slavia Prague was a turning point for Lingr. Slavia’s a giant in Czech football, and Lingr fit right in when he arrived in 2020.

At Slavia, he took his goal scoring and creative play to another level. The team leaned on him in big matches, both at home and in Europe.

Table: Achievements at Slavia Prague

Years	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Trophies
2020–2023, 2024–2025	105	29	10	2 League Titles, 1 Czech Cup

Lingr built a reputation for clutch play and big moments. In the 2023–24 season, he also spent time with Dutch powerhouse Feyenoord, picking up experience in the Eredivisie and European games.

His stints at Slavia and Feyenoord paved the way to Houston Dynamo FC. He brought everything he learned at the top level with him. If you want to understand Lingr’s style, you have to look back at those formative years in Prague and Rotterdam.

On-Field Achievements and Statistics

Let’s talk about Ondřej Lingr—a guy who just keeps producing in midfield. He’s got a knack for smart distribution and, honestly, he’s delivered in clutch moments time and again.

Just take a look at his numbers. They spell out exactly what he brings, both in Major League Soccer and during his run in Europe.

Goal and Assist Records

In European club competitions, Lingr made his mark as a direct threat in the final third. By 2025, he racked up 55 goals and 14 assists across his club career. Most of those came while he played for MFK Karviná and Slavia Prague.

Playing as an attacking midfielder, he finished chances and set up teammates. That’s a rare combo, and it jumps off the page.

Now in Houston, Lingr is still filling up the stat sheet. The Dynamo signed him as a designated player, expecting him to put up big numbers. They lean on him for creative playmaking and goal involvement, especially in big moments.

He’s contributed steadily from open play and set pieces. That’s just what you want from a player in his role.

Career Stats Summary

Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
MFK Karviná	(2017–2020)	—	—
Slavia Prague	(2020–2025)	—	—
Career in Europe	258	55	14

You can dig into more details on the Houston Dynamo FC official player profile.

MLS Debut and Goal Highlights

Lingr stepped onto the MLS stage with Houston Dynamo in 2025 and didn’t waste any time making an impression. His technical skills and vision stood out right away.

He even bagged a goal in a wild win over San Diego FC. That finish under pressure? Classic Lingr—finding space, taking his chance.

People around the league have noticed his work rate and how he moves without the ball. Coaches and fans are already trusting him with big moments.

As a designated player, the expectations are sky-high. Lingr is already stepping up in important matches, grabbing goals and assists in his first few weeks in orange.

Every game, he’s building more trust and showing off those late runs into the box. That’s a threat defenders have to respect.

If you want to track his latest form, check out Sofascore.

Trophy Wins in Europe

Before his Houston adventure, Lingr tasted success with Slavia Prague, one of the Czech Republic’s top clubs. He picked up domestic trophies there, which says a lot about his experience.

He played in league, cup, and even European competitions. That kind of pressure shapes a player, and you can see it in how he carries himself on the pitch.

Winning with Slavia Prague isn’t just about numbers—it’s about showing resilience and a winning mentality. Those years sharpened his leadership and prepared him for the MLS spotlight.

His move from European trophies to Houston just shows he’s used to competing at a high level. Want the full story? His Wikipedia profile has all the details.

Playing Style and Impact

When Lingr joined Houston Dynamo FC, he brought a reputation as a proven attacking midfielder. He’s got sharp positioning, a nose for timely goals, and link-up play that’s hard to teach.

Since he arrived, Houston’s offensive transition has looked sharper. The midfield just feels more creative, more dangerous.

Key Strengths and Playmaking

Lingr stands out for his intelligence on the ball and his calm when things get tight. Watch him for a few minutes—you’ll see that quick decision-making in action, whether it’s a forward pass or a late surge into the box.

He’s got a crisp first touch and thrives in tight spaces. That lets him break down defenses and keep opponents guessing.

Lingr has posted double-digit goals in multiple seasons. In 2021-22, he scored 14 for Slavia Prague. The next year, he netted 11. That kind of production is a big part of his game.

Recent Club Stats

Season	Club	Apps	Goals	Assists
2021-22	Slavia Prague	47	14	3
2022-23	Slavia Prague	44	11	4
2024-25*	Houston Dynamo	16	5	2

*2024-25 stats as of July 2025

It’s not just about scoring. His vision and movement open up passing lanes and keep defenders on their toes.

Influence on Houston Dynamo’s Midfield

Lingr’s impact goes well beyond what you see in the box score. Since he arrived, Houston’s midfield plays with more freedom and confidence.

He starts attacks with quick passes and isn’t afraid to track back and win the ball. That’s the kind of two-way play you need in MLS.

He helps the team switch from defense to attack without missing a beat. Teammates like Jack McGlynn and Sebastian Kowalczyk have more room to work, thanks to Lingr’s movement.

You can see his leadership in the tight matches. When Houston needs a late goal or just wants to control the tempo, Lingr is the guy setting the pace.

From building up in the back to breaking into the final third, he’s central to how Houston plays.

Notable Partnerships with Teammates

Lingr’s chemistry with Amine Bassi and Griffin Dorsey is a real highlight. Bassi’s creativity meshes perfectly with Lingr’s direct runs, so Houston can attack through the middle with quick combinations.

On the right, Griffin Dorsey’s overlapping runs give Lingr an option to switch play or spark a wide attack. When you add in McGlynn’s passing and Kowalczyk’s energy, the midfield suddenly looks a lot more dynamic.

These partnerships lead to goals and help Houston control games in different ways. Opponents can’t just focus on one area—Houston can go through the middle or out wide, and that variety makes them tough to defend.

For a deeper dive into what Lingr brings, the official Houston Dynamo player profile has you covered.

International and Personal Background

Ondřej Lingr’s football journey is all about making an impact—whether it’s for his club or his country. His work ethic, style, and life off the field make him stand out for Houston Dynamo FC.

Czech Republic National Team Experience

Lingr doesn’t just shine for his club. He’s earned call-ups to the Czech Republic national team and contributed in UEFA competitions and World Cup qualifiers.

He usually operates as a midfielder, where coaches value his movement, quick passing, and the way he joins the attack from deep.

He’s played against some heavyweights in Europe. Here’s a quick look at his international stats:

Competition	Appearances	Goals	Assists
UEFA Nations Lg.	9	1	0
World Cup Qual.	7	0	1
Friendlies	10	1	1

He’s faced teams like England, Poland, and Switzerland. While he hasn’t scored a ton at this level, his tactical awareness and energy keep him in the mix for the Czech side.

Personal Attributes and Background

Alright, let’s talk about Ondřej Lingr. He was born in Havířov, Czech Republic, on October 7, 1998. Growing up in a football-loving family, he jumped into the game early and just kept climbing through those youth academies.

At 5’9″, Lingr brings a real burst of agility and sharp positioning to Houston Dynamo FC. Coaches say he’s disciplined, technically sharp, and ready to shoulder responsibility both on and off the pitch.

You hear teammates praise his upbeat attitude and how quickly he adapts—a must for anyone stepping into Major League Soccer for the first time. That kind of flexibility? It matters.

Lingr made the move to Houston in March 2025, looking for something new after years with Slavia Prague and MFK Karviná back home. You can see that blend of European experience and personal grit in the way he approaches every match.

Want more? Check out his Houston Dynamo FC team page.