Carlos Mercado
Carlos Mercado Earns New Deal with Orlando City SC, Continuing His Journey from Laredo to MLS
Carlos Mercado’s rise from a young soccer player in Laredo to a Major League Soccer goalkeeper continues, as the 25-year-old has signed a new contract with Orlando City SC for the 2025 season. The deal also includes club options for 2026 and 2027, securing his place within the organization for the foreseeable future.
The new contract comes just months after Orlando City declined Mercado’s previous option, leaving his future uncertain. However, the departure of Mason Stajduhar to Real Salt Lake opened a roster spot, paving the way for Mercado’s return to the first team.
A Journey of Perseverance
Mercado’s story is one of persistence and resilience. His introduction to goalkeeping came at 13 when he filled in during a pickup game with his older brothers. From there, his talent quickly emerged, leading him to opportunities with C.F. Pachuca’s U-14 squad in Mexico and later with FC Dallas, where he helped its U-15 and U-16 teams secure national championships.
He has also represented both Mexico and the United States at the national level, earning call-ups to Mexico’s U-16 and U-18 teams and the U.S. U-18 squad. After two years at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Mercado signed with USL Championship club San Antonio FC. A shoulder injury in 2022 sidelined him for an entire season, leaving him uncertain about his future in professional soccer.
Despite contemplating retirement in 2024, Mercado earned a trial with Orlando City, reigniting his career. He initially signed with Orlando City B before securing a first-team contract after Stajduhar suffered a season-ending leg injury.
Making His Mark in MLS NEXT Pro
With Pedro Gallese firmly entrenched as Orlando City’s starting goalkeeper and Javier Otero serving as his backup, Mercado took on a key role for Orlando City B in MLS NEXT Pro. He made 20 starts, logging 1,830 minutes while posting a 1.48 goals-against average. He recorded a 73% save percentage, stopping 81 of 111 shots, including two of four penalty kicks. His performances resulted in a 9-5-6 record with three clean sheets.
“Goalkeepers mature by playing minutes, so I was getting a lot of time and was at the top of the league in several stats,” Mercado said. “It was a great experience.”
Orlando City Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi praised Mercado’s contributions and work ethic. “Carlos did a great job for us last year with Orlando City B and continued to provide a positive work ethic and atmosphere every day in training up with the first team,” Muzzi said. “He’s part of a strong goalkeeping unit here at the club, and we feel confident in the future of that entire position group moving forward.”
Staying Ready for His Next Opportunity
Though he will likely spend most of 2025 with Orlando City B again, Mercado remains prepared for any opportunity to compete with the first team. He played a strong match in Orlando City B’s season opener, a 2-1 victory over Columbus Crew 2, where he recorded four saves and nearly secured a clean sheet.
“You never know what can happen. In soccer, everything changes pretty fast,” Mercado said. “I’m always giving my all, whether I’m training with the first team or second team. That’s one of my strengths—I am always staying ready.”
Beyond his playing career, Mercado is also preparing for life after soccer. He is studying to become a certified life coach and is developing a mentorship program for young athletes. He encourages aspiring soccer players in Laredo and beyond to reach out to him on Instagram for guidance.
“If any young athletes need mentorship, they are welcome to reach out to me,” Mercado said. “It’s about finding the purpose in your life and going all in on it.”
With his resilience and unwavering dedication, Mercado continues to serve as an inspiration, proving that dreams can become reality with perseverance and belief. His journey from Laredo to MLS is far from over—it’s just getting started.
