Rising USMNT star named MLS Young Player of the Year 🏅 | OneFootball

Orlando City defender Alex Freeman has been named the 2025 MLS Young Player of the Year, capping off a breakout season that established him as one of the league’s brightest rising stars.

The 21-year-old made 29 appearances for Orlando this season, bagging six goals and three assists. His six goals tied for the most among defenders across MLS. 

Freeman’s award marks the first time an Orlando City Academy product has claimed the honor since its current format was introduced. 

On the international stage,Freeman also made his U.S. Men’s National Team debut this year, earning minutes during the 2025 Gold Cup.

Freeman edged out fellow finalists Obed Vargas of the Seattle Sounders and Diego Luna of Real Salt Lake to claim the award, which is voted on by MLS players, technical staff, and media members.

With the recognition, Freeman joins an elite list of past winners that includes Thiago Almada and Jesús Ferreira, players who went on to become stars for club and country.

For Orlando City, his emergence signals a promising future built on homegrown talent.

📸 Andy Lyons - 2025 Getty Images