Orlando City SC defender Alex Freeman was named to the U.S. Men’s National Team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup roster. Freeman, 21, is the youngest player on the roster and the first Orlando City player to progress from the academy through MLS NEXT Pro and MLS to the World Cup stage.

What happened?

Freeman's selection is a significant milestone for Orlando City SC, marking the first time a player from the club's academy has made it to the World Cup.

Why it matters for Orlando City SC

This achievement highlights the club's commitment to developing young talent and providing a pathway to the top level of international soccer.

What comes next?

The USMNT will open tournament play against Paraguay on June 12. Meanwhile, Orlando City SC is preparing for their next fixture against Real Salt Lake at home on 2026-08-22. Currently, the team is dealing with injuries to key players, including F. Loyola, D. McGuire, and Y. Tsukada. | Player | Status | | --- | --- | | F. Loyola | Sidelined | | D. McGuire | Sidelined | | Y. Tsukada | Sidelined | As the team looks to bounce back from these setbacks, Freeman's achievement serves as a reminder of the club's potential for growth and success.