Wilder Cartagena
ORL
Center Midfielder
Creative Playmaker
Sep 23, 1994 (32)
Right
5'11"
170 lb
Back in midfield rotation
Cartagena has returned to Orlando City SC following international duty with Peru and is available for Saturday's MLS clash against Columbus Crew after being omitted from the league's latest injury report.
Analysis: Cartagena missed the matchup against Philadelphia Union while representing Peru during the international break but is now back in contention for midfield minutes. The midfielder has primarily served as a reserve option this season, making 11 MLS appearances with just two starts and no goal contributions. Given his limited involvement in the starting XI throughout the campaign, Cartagena is expected to remain a rotational option against Columbus, with a role off the bench more likely than an immediate return to the starting lineup.
Called up by Peru
Cartagena has been called up by Peru for four international matches between Sept. 26 and Oct. 6 and will miss the Sept. 26 MLS match against Philadelphia Union.
Analysis: Cartagena will be unavailable against Philadelphia due to international duty, though his absence should have limited impact on the regular starting XI. The midfielder has primarily served in a reserve role this season, making 11 MLS appearances with just two starts and no goal contributions. Cartagena should return in time for the Oct. 10 match against Columbus Crew.
Substitute option Saturday
Cartagena (hamstring) is on the bench to face D.C. United on Saturday.
Analysis: Cartagena has played just 14 minutes in MLS action this year as he got hurt early in the season opener. He also dealt with a torn Achilles tendon in 2025, so it may still take some time for him to get consistent minutes on the field. However, he'll be an option in the contention with current starters Braian Ojeda and Luis Otavio.
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