Orlando City SC confirmed Friday that 19‑year‑old midfielder Colin Guske has been loaned to Real Salt Lake for the rest of the 2026 Major League Soccer season. The agreement includes $50,000 in general allocation money moving to the Lions, and Real Salt Lake retains an option to convert the loan into a permanent transfer at the end of the term.
Player background and development
Guske joined Orlando City’s senior roster as a homegrown player in December 2024 after progressing through the club’s academy system. Since signing his first‑team contract, he has appeared in 16 matches across all competitions, gaining valuable experience in both MLS and the MLS NEXT Pro league.
During his time with Orlando City B, Guske earned All‑Star honors in the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season. He logged 45 starts in 46 games, contributing one goal and four assists while showcasing the technical ability and work ethic that attracted interest from other MLS clubs.
Quote from the player
“Orlando City has been my home for a long time, and I’m thankful to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey,” Guske said in a statement. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my development through this move and for the trust the club has shown in helping me take this next step. My focus is on improving every day, earning opportunities on the field and helping the team however I can. I’m excited and looking forward to this next challenge.”
Team implications
Real Salt Lake, currently sitting at 8‑7‑4 with 28 points, will add Guske to a midfield that is looking to solidify its depth as the club pushes for a playoff berth. Orlando City, at 6‑11‑3 with 21 points, will continue the season without the young midfielder but retains the option to bring him back or negotiate a permanent deal if the loan proves successful.
The two clubs will meet again on Saturday night when Real Salt Lake travels to Orlando City’s home field, providing an early test of Guske’s integration with his new teammates.
League context
Player loans are a common mechanism in MLS, allowing clubs to develop talent while managing roster flexibility and salary‑cap considerations. The inclusion of general allocation money in the deal reflects the league’s unique financial structure, where clubs can trade such assets to facilitate player movement.
Both Orlando City and Real Salt Lake have emphasized the importance of nurturing young American talent, aligning with MLS’s broader goal of strengthening the domestic player pool for future national‑team success.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
