Orlando City SC and head coach Oscar Pareja have agreed to part ways, effective immediately, as announced by the team on Wednesday.
Pareja, who was hired on December 4, 2019, had a record of 103 wins, 72 losses, and 66 draws across all competitions. He led the team to win the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2022.
This season has been difficult for Orlando, who has conceded an MLS-high 11 goals and lost all three of their matches. The team is set to host CF Montreal (1-2-0, 3 points) on Saturday.
“I want to thank Oscar for his dedication and leadership,” said general manager Ricardo Moreira. “He contributed significantly to Orlando City’s history with the 2022 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and built a competitive foundation that has enabled us to make six consecutive playoff appearances, the longest active streak in MLS.”
“We believe now is the right time to take the club in a new direction as we aim for further growth. We appreciate everything Oscar has done and wish him success in his next endeavors.”
“Oscar’s impact on the club and community will always be remembered,” said Mark Wilf, owner and chairman of Orlando City SC. “He elevated Orlando City on and off the field and represented our values with integrity. We are thankful for all he has contributed.”
Pareja, 57, previously coached the Colorado Rapids (2012-14), FC Dallas (2014-18), and Liga MX’s Club Tijuana (2018-19).
“I want to express my gratitude to the players, staff, and supporters during my time at the club,” Pareja said. “We shared unforgettable moments. While this is the right time for both of us to move on, I leave proud of what we’ve achieved. Orlando will always hold a special place in my heart, and I wish the team success in the future.”
Assistant coach Martin Perelman will serve as interim head coach. He has been with Orlando City as the first team assistant since 2024.