Orlando City’s scouting department is a key engine behind the Lions’ on‑field success, and its head of scouting, Felipe Lema, is at the forefront of that effort. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Lema draws on his lifelong passion for soccer and his professional experience across South America and Europe to locate players who can strengthen the club.
From Buenos Aires to Orlando
Lema grew up dreaming of a professional playing career. When that path did not materialize, he turned his love of the game into a career in sports journalism and communications, eventually becoming a video analyst for a third‑division Argentine club. His first major break came with Argentinos Juniors, where he transitioned from analyst to scout.
In 2021, Orlando City hired Lema as an Argentina‑based scout tasked with mapping the country’s soccer market. “Having someone on‑site is always better for us for the way that we like doing scouting,” said Orlando City general manager and sporting director Ricardo Moreira. “We want to know the players.”
Global reach, local impact
Today, Lema oversees scouting across South America, Europe and other markets. He spends countless hours watching games, a routine he describes as “a way of life now.” The department evaluates prospects before arranging in‑person visits, often traveling with lead scout Oliver Wyss to meet players and their agents.
His work has already yielded notable signings, including Argentine forward Facundo Torres and Colombian midfielder Iván Angulo. Lema also played a pivotal role in the year‑long pursuit of Martín Ojeda, demonstrating the department’s patience and thoroughness.
Why Argentine perspective matters
“Argentina taught me a lot of things, and it still does,” Lema said. He believes the country’s deep cultural connection to soccer gives him a unique lens for assessing talent. “How we live, how we feel every day about this game… that’s difficult to find sometimes because it’s culture,” he explained.
By sharing that cultural insight with his colleagues, Lema helps the Lions maintain a scouting philosophy that values both technical skill and the intangible passion that defines great players.
The recruitment process explained
Identifying a potential player is only the first step. Once a prospect is flagged, scouts conduct a detailed evaluation, after which the club may arrange a visit. “It’s a long process,” Lema noted. “Normally, our scouts identify the player. They go into our process.” After the scouting team completes its assessment, Moreira leads negotiations and finalizes any signing.
This methodical approach ensures that each addition to the roster aligns with the club’s strategic goals and the expectations of Orlando’s passionate fan base.
Looking ahead
As Orlando City continues to compete in Major League Soccer, Lema’s Argentine perspective and global network remain vital assets. Fans can expect the Lions to keep bringing in talent that reflects both skill and the love of the game that Lema and his team cherish.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
