PHOTO BY MARK THOR VIA ORLANDO CITY SC
Orlando City SC has announced the transfer of defender Rodrigo Schlegel (Instagram) to Atlas F.C. of Liga MX, bringing an end to one of the most memorable tenures in club history. Schlegel departs after becoming one of the Lions’ most recognizable and widely respected players.
Schlegel, 28, joined Orlando City ahead of the 2020 MLS season on loan from Racing Club in Argentina. He quickly established himself as a reliable defender and went on to make 180 appearances across all competitions, starting 155 matches. During his time in purple, he scored four goals and added one assist, finishing his Orlando career ranked fourth all-time in appearances for the club. In 2025, he appeared in all 40 matches he played, starting every one and scoring once.
One of the most memorable moments in his time with Orlando would have to be during the 2020 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. Schlegel was forced into an emergency role as goalkeeper during a dramatic penalty shootout after Orlando City had exhausted its substitutions. Despite being a field player, he stepped into goal, made a decisive save, and helped secure the club’s first-ever playoff victory. The moment instantly endeared him to fans and became one of the most iconic plays in team history.
Schlegel continued to play a central role as Orlando City grew into a consistent playoff team. He was a key contributor during the club’s run to the 2022 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title, the first major trophy of Orlando City’s MLS era, and helped the Lions reach six consecutive postseason appearances, the longest active streak in the league.
General Manager and Sporting Director Ricardo Moreira praised Schlegel’s impact, citing his passion, leadership, and commitment to the club’s culture. With the move to Atlas, Schlegel begins a new chapter in Mexico’s top division, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Orlando that will be remembered for years.
