São Paulo FC finalizing signing of goalkeeper Carlos Coronel | OneFootball

São Paulo FC made headlines on Wednesday (24) by securing the high-profile signing of goalkeeper Carlos Coronel. The news, initially reported by New York Red Bulls journalist Alexsander Vieira, was later confirmed by Pitchside US.

Born in Brazil and naturalized as a Paraguayan, Coronel is part of Paraguay's national football team pool. It is viewed as a potential option for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. According to U.S. press reports, Orlando City SC showed interest in signing the goalkeeper, but São Paulo moved quickly to secure the deal.

Carlos Coronel: career overview

Carlos Miguel Coronel was born on December 29, 1996, in Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul. He developed in Red Bull Brasil's youth system before moving to Austria in 2015, where he began his professional career with FC Liefering, Red Bull Salzburg’s feeder club.

At Liefering, Coronel became a regular starter and occasionally wore the captain’s armband, gaining early experience in European football.

Following his achievements with Liefering, his performances earned him a place with Red Bull Salzburg’s first team, where he competed for minutes and made appearances in high-level competitions, including the UEFA Champions League. In 2019, Coronel transitioned to the United States on loan with the Philadelphia Union, where he divided his time between Major League Soccer matches and appearances for the club’s USL Championship affiliate.

Coronel’s career took a decisive turn at the end of 2021 when the New York Red Bulls signed him on a permanent deal, following his loan spells. He quickly established himself as the club’s undisputed starter, becoming one of the most consistent goalkeepers in MLS. Over nearly five seasons, he accumulated more than 180 appearances, recorded dozens of clean sheets, and regularly ranked among the league leaders in saves.

In 2023, after leveraging his Paraguayan heritage through his mother, Coronel became a naturalized citizen and earned call-ups to Paraguay’s national team, featuring in World Cup qualifying matches. His contract with the Red Bulls is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, which would put him in a position to enter the free-agent market then.

Now, Coronel arrives at São Paulo FC with extensive experience in European and North American football. He also brings international exposure with the Paraguayan National team. His signing adds a goalkeeper with proven consistency, leadership, and adaptability to São Paulo’s squad.