Eduard Atuesta
ORL
CM
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Jun 18, 1997 (29)
Right
5'11"
157 lb
Orlando CityOption to face Chicago
Atuesta (thigh) is on the bench in Wednesday's clash with Chicago Fire.
Analysis: Atuesta's return is great news for an Orlando midfield that is missing both Martin Ojeda (thigh) and Braian Ojeda (foot) and currently starting Wilder Cartagena alongside Luis Otavio. After being sidelined in two of the last three MLS games, Atuesta will try to regain momentum as a substitute before bouncing back to a primary role. If that happens in the next few contests, his value will come from pass accuracy and tackling numbers.
Sidelined through thigh injury
Atuesta won't be an option for the time being due to a thigh injury, per the MLS Player Status Report.
Analysis: Atuesta's situation has shifted from a suspension last week to a confirmed thigh injury, which is a significant concern given that a muscle problem carries no fixed endpoint and could cost him additional time beyond what the ban alone would have. As one of Orlando's starting defensive midfielders, his absence leaves a gap in front of the back line. Braian Ojeda (foot) is unavailable as well at that position, so that could lead to Wilder Cartagena and Luis Otavio playing in upcoming contests, and forward Antoine Griezmann taking the majority of set pieces.
Available Saturday
Atuesta has served his one match suspension and will be an option for the trip to RBNY on Saturday.
Analysis: Atuesta has started Orlando's last four matches, putting him in a strong position to retain his starting spot on Saturday. Now in his second season with the club, he has nine starts in 12 league appearances, producing three assists, eight chances created, 17 crosses, and 27 tackles.
Set for suspension
Atuesta picked up a yellow card in Wednesday's 4-0 win over San Jose, his fifth of the season, and will be suspended for Saturday's match against Nashville, according to the league.
Analysis: Atuesta's absence opens the door for Tyrese Spicer to likely step into a bigger role in the engine room for that fixture. The suspension is a minor disruption to Orlando's midfield, and Atuesta should be available to regain his undisputed starter role once the one match ban is served against NYRB on Aug. 1.
On bench Saturday
Atuesta (undisclosed) is on the bench for Saturday's clash against Inter Miami.
Analysis: Atuesta has recovered from the issue that forced him to miss the previous two weeks of league activity, and he's now an option to replace either Luis Otavio or Braian Ojeda in midfield. Despite having yet to score or assist this year, the Colombian enjoyed significant playing time in the last three games before his injury, tallying 116 accurate passes and seven tackles over that span.
Misses practice
Atuesta didn't take part in Tuesday's training session and could be sidelined in future contests, per the team's digital content manager Austin David.
Analysis: Atuesta has recently been limited by thigh injuries, though it's unclear if he has suffered a setback or a new issue. The midfielder previously tallied 159 accurate passes, seven tackles and five interceptions but lacked offensive production across six MLS appearances in 2026. Colin Guske could move to a bigger role in his place if required in the next few games.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare