Nicolás Lodeiro leaves Orlando City and will be announced by Libertad | OneFootball

One thing you can never accuse Nicolás Lodeiro of is sticking to the easy path. After making history with the Seattle Sounders, the Uruguayan decided to shake things up in Major League Soccer and gave Orlando City a shot. But like all whirlwind romances, it didn’t last long. Now, he’s packing his bags and heading to Paraguay, where he’ll rock the shirt of Libertad.

So, does this move make sense? Because, honestly, it’s at least a little head-scratching. The guy was one of the biggest legends in Seattle Sounders’ history, won major trophies, and just when it seemed like he might make another MLS run, he goes and flips the script completely. From the well-organized, rising game of U.S. soccer to the always unpredictable world of Paraguayan soccer. If that’s not bold, I don’t know what is.

Let’s be real. Lodeiro isn’t the same explosive playmaker he used to be. Age is catching up, and his body isn’t keeping up with the sharp mind that still sees the game so well. In Orlando, it was clear he wasn’t an untouchable player anymore. But, let’s face it, no one expected his next stop to be Libertad.

Now, I’ve got nothing against Paraguayan soccer, it’s always been full of competitive teams and a tough, gritty style of play. But it’s a jump that raises a lot of questions. Paraguay isn’t exactly the easiest place for more technical, experienced players to thrive. It’s a league that demands intensity, tight marking, and you better bring a lot of energy along with that fancy footwork. Lodeiro’s got the skill, but can he keep up with the pace?

Now, let’s think like an executive. If you’ve got the chance to bring in a player who’s won the Libertadores, played in the World Cup, and has a solid resume, would you hesitate? Libertad didn’t. The Paraguayan club isn’t just about local titles, they want to make a name for themselves in South America. And Lodeiro, even at 34, might just be the game-changer they need. He might not be the guy who single-handedly carries a team anymore, but his experience could be a huge asset. In a continental tournament, knowing the ropes is everything, and having someone like him on the squad could be the missing piece for Libertad to take that next step.

Now, let’s not kid ourselves into thinking Lodeiro’s going to be playing 90 minutes at a high level every week. He’s got to be used wisely. If Libertad manages him right, he could be the maestro who steps up when it matters most. But if they mishandle him, they might be left frustrated with a player who just can’t give what he once did.

Lodeiro’s departure also raises another question: what’s Orlando City losing here? Honestly? Not much. The Uruguayan arrived with big expectations but never really found his place as a key player. Sure, he brought experience and tactical smarts, but he wasn’t the kind of game-changer that took the team to another level. Orlando City will keep moving forward in MLS without much of a hiccup. At best, they lose a leader in the locker room.

The MLS isn’t the same league anymore, where veteran players come just to coast out the end of their careers. The league’s grown, it’s more physical, more demanding. If a player like Lodeiro can’t stand out like he used to, it’s a sign that the level’s gone up. And for anyone following the league, that’s a great sign.

The truth is, Lodeiro’s always been a player who makes a difference. Even if he’s not the player he once was, he could still have a big impact at Libertad. But that all depends on how they use him and how he approaches this new challenge. If he comes in with a winner’s mindset and is willing to adjust to Paraguayan soccer, he could be the guy who takes Libertad’s game to the next level. But if he’s just there to ride out his last few years, this move might be forgotten before you know it.