The Goalkeeper’s Pen: Rafael Cabral Takes the Reins at Real Salt Lake
📸 Miguel Schincariol – 2023 Getty Images
In a transfer window that has been as frenetic as it has been exciting, the position of the goalkeeper hasn’t seen as much turnover as other roles. However, Real Salt Lake (RSL) has made a shrewd addition by securing Rafael Cabral from Gremio. At 34, Cabral brings an extensive resume to Utah, having made over 400 senior appearances in his career. His seasoned presence and reliability are exactly what RSL needs to establish a solid backline. Cabral’s experience, particularly in high-pressure situations, will be invaluable as the team looks to build a strong foundation and challenge for the top spots in the Western Conference. His move to RSL is a clear indication of the club’s commitment to strengthening their defensive capabilities, a crucial step as they prepare for the 2025 season.
The Right Flank Fills Out: Luca Orellano’s Permanent Impact at Cincinnati
📸 Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
FC Cincinnati has been one of the most intriguing teams to watch in recent seasons, and their signing of Luca Orellano from Vasco de Gama on a permanent deal is a testament to their forward-thinking approach. The 24-year-old Orellano was a revelation in 2024, showcasing his versatility by alternating between right wing-back and right-winger. His stellar campaign, highlighted by 10 goals and seven assists, earned him the MLS Newcomer of the Year award. Orellano’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset for Cincinnati’s 2025 lineup. His penchant for scoring spectacular goals, or "bangers" as they are fondly called, adds an extra layer of excitement to the team. With Orellano now a permanent fixture, FC Cincinnati is poised to continue their upward trajectory.
Central Defense Reinforced: Andrés Reyes and Nicolás Romero Shore Up the Backline
📸 Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images, JUAN MABROMATA
San Diego FC, the newest team in MLS, has been the busiest in the market this winter, and their defensive acquisitions are nothing short of impressive. Andrés Reyes, a stalwart center-back from the New York Red Bulls, joins San Diego for a significant $800,000 transfer fee. Reyes was crucial in the Red Bulls’ run to the 2024 MLS Cup final, even scoring the decisive goal in the Eastern Conference final. His experience and leadership will be pivotal as San Diego builds its inaugural defensive core.
On the other hand, Minnesota United has secured the services of young Argentine center-back Nicolás Romero. At just 21, Romero has already made nearly 80 first-team appearances in the Argentine top-flight, demonstrating his maturity and potential. Under second-year head coach Eric Ramsay, Romero is expected to bring a fresh perspective and enhanced defensive options to the Loons. The combination of Reyes and Romero in the central defense is a blend of seasoned expertise and youthful vigor, setting a high standard for the upcoming season.
The Midfield Dynamo: Gastón Brugman and Mateusz Klich Bolster Nashville and Atlanta
📸 Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images, Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
The midfield is often the heart of any team, and Nashville SC and Atlanta United have made significant moves to strengthen theirs. Nashville SC’s acquisition of Gastón Brugman from the LA Galaxy is a coup that few could have predicted. Brugman, the MLS Cup MVP, was instrumental in the Galaxy’s title triumph, and his last-minute inclusion in the final lineup may have sealed the deal. While he wasn’t a first-choice player under Greg Vanney, his experience and leadership will be a boon for Nashville, who are looking to reclaim their early success in the league. Brugman’s ability to control the tempo and provide crucial moments could be the catalyst Nashville needs to revitalize their campaign.
Atlanta United, known for their big spending, have doubled down on their midfield with the addition of Mateusz Klich from D.C. United. Klich, a former Leeds United player, was the standout in a struggling D.C. United squad last season. His move to Atlanta, expected to be more fluid and dynamic, could see him recapture his Premier League form. Atlanta’s management has indicated that they view Klich as a fourth Designated Player, a testament to the quality and impact they believe he will bring. Alongside talent like Aleksei Miranchuk, Atlanta’s midfield is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in the league.
The Winger Renaissance: Miguel Almirón’s Return and Lucho Acosta’s New Chapter
📸 Eddie Keogh – 2025 Getty Images, Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Atlanta United has not only bolstered their midfield but also their attacking prowess with the return of Miguel Almirón. The Paraguayan sensation, who left the Five Stripes for Newcastle United in 2019 for nearly $26 million, has made a triumphant return. Almirón’s two seasons with Atlanta (2017-2018) saw him score 21 goals and provide 28 assists in just 62 games. His versatility and creative playmaking will be a significant asset as Atlanta looks to reload under new head coach Ronny Deila. With Almirón alongside Miranchuk and the big-money striker Emmanuel Latte-Lath, Atlanta is set to field one of the most formidable attacking lineups in MLS.
FC Dallas, meanwhile, has secured the services of Lucho Acosta, a player whose public desire to leave Cincinnati hasn’t detracted from his undeniable talent. Acosta, a long-time star in MLS, has a staggering record of 72 goals and 97 assists in 251 games. His move to Dallas, where he will lead the attack alongside star striker Petar Musa, is a game-changing addition. Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from Cincinnati, Acosta’s track record and continued high performance make him a key player to watch in 2025.
The Final Piece: Emmanuel Latte-Lath Leads Atlanta’s Attack
📸 Stu Forster – 2025 Getty Images
At the top of the lineup, the MLS record signing, Emmanuel Latte-Lath, is set to make waves with Atlanta United. The former Middlesbrough striker comes into the league with a hefty price tag and significant pressure, but Atlanta has assembled a talented squad to support him. Latte-Lath’s experience and goal-scoring prowess, coupled with the creative talents of Almirón and Klich, position Atlanta as a serious contender for the 2025 MLS Cup. His move underscores Atlanta’s ambition and their willingness to invest heavily to achieve success. As the final piece of the puzzle, Latte-Lath’s arrival is a clear signal that Atlanta is ready to dominate the attacked and make a statement in the league.
Evaluating the XI: A Blend of Experience and Youth, Talent and Ambition
📸 Various – 2023-2025 Getty Images
Putting together the best XI of confirmed inbound transfers for the 2025 MLS season reveals a team that balances experience with youth, defensive solidity with attacking flair, and tactical nous with sheer talent. From Rafael Cabral’s veteran leadership in goal to the dynamic and creative presence of Miguel Almirón and Lucho Acosta out wide, this lineup is a reflection of the league’s growing competitiveness and the strategic investments being made by clubs. San Diego FC’s signings of Andrés Reyes and Chucky Lozano, Minnesota United’s acquisition of Nicolás Romero, and Nashville SC’s addition of Gastón Brugman all highlight the depth and quality of the transfer market. While some may argue that certain players have been overlooked, this XI undoubtedly features some of the most exciting and impactful transfers of the season. As the 2025 season kicks off, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these new arrivals perform and shape the league’s landscape.
