MLS Team Injury Report: Key Absences For Saturday's Games

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 15, 2025

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Saturday's MLS games promise excitement, but several key players are sidelined due to injuries. This comprehensive MLS team injury report details the significant absences that could alter the outcome of crucial matches. We'll break down the injuries and their potential impact on team performance, helping you stay informed for fantasy football decisions and game predictions.

Eastern Conference Injury Concerns

Orlando City SC

• Key Injuries:

  • Forward Daryl Dike – hamstring tear – out for 6 weeks. This is a significant blow to Orlando's attacking options, as Dike is their leading goal scorer.
  • Midfielder Junior Urso – ankle sprain – questionable. Urso's presence in midfield is crucial for Orlando's ball control and distribution; his absence could disrupt their rhythm.

• Impact on the Game: Dike's absence severely limits Orlando's attacking threat. They'll likely rely more on Tesho Akindele and Ercan Kara to fill the void, but neither player offers the same level of clinical finishing. Urso's potential absence weakens their midfield, impacting their ability to dictate the tempo. We could see a more defensive approach from Orlando if Urso is unable to play.

• Fantasy Football Implications: Dike owners should look for replacements immediately. Urso's status needs to be monitored closely before setting your lineup; consider alternatives if he's ruled out.

New York Red Bulls

• Key Injuries:

  • Defender Aaron Long – knee injury – out indefinitely. This is a massive loss for the Red Bulls' defense. Long is a crucial part of their backline and his leadership will be sorely missed.
  • Goalkeeper Carlos Coronel - concussion protocol - doubtful. Coronel's absence raises serious concerns for the Red Bulls' defensive stability, with the backup keeper lacking his experience.

• Impact on the Game: The Red Bulls' defensive solidity is severely compromised without Long. They may need to rely more heavily on their midfield to prevent attacking opportunities, potentially leading to a more cautious approach. Coronel's absence could significantly weaken their goalkeeping, increasing the likelihood of conceded goals.

• Fantasy Football Implications: Long's absence significantly impacts the Red Bulls' defensive score potential in fantasy leagues. Monitor Coronel's status closely; if he's out, you might consider adjusting your goalkeeper selection.

Western Conference Injury Updates

LA Galaxy

• Key Injuries:

  • Midfielder Sebastian Lletget – groin strain – doubtful. Lletget's absence would weaken the Galaxy's midfield creativity and passing ability.
  • Forward Javier Hernandez – minor muscle strain – probable. While "probable," Chicharito's fitness is still a concern; even at less than 100%, his attacking presence is key for LA.

• Impact on the Game: Lletget's potential absence could disrupt the Galaxy's midfield fluidity. They may need to adjust their passing game and look for alternative ways to create chances. Hernandez's fitness is critical; even at reduced effectiveness, he remains a significant goal threat.

• Fantasy Football Implications: Fantasy managers should closely monitor Lletget's status and consider alternatives if he is unavailable. Hernandez's participation is vital for his fantasy owners, but his reduced mobility could affect his performance.

Seattle Sounders FC

• Key Injuries:

  • Defender Nouhou Tolo – hamstring injury – out for 4 weeks. This absence significantly weakens Seattle's left flank, impacting both defensive stability and attacking contributions from that side.
  • Forward Raul Ruidiaz - knee injury - questionable. Ruidiaz's presence is essential for Seattle’s attacking prowess, making his uncertainty a significant concern.

• Impact on the Game: Tolo's injury weakens Seattle's defensive solidity and ability to push forward on the left side. This will likely force tactical adjustments, potentially leaving them more vulnerable to attacks down that flank. Ruidiaz's participation, or lack thereof, will significantly impact their attacking options and goal-scoring potential.

• Fantasy Football Implications: Fantasy managers need to be prepared for a potential drop in performance from Seattle's defense and attack, requiring careful consideration of their lineup choices.

Impact on Saturday's Match Outcomes

Overall Analysis

The injuries highlighted above could significantly impact the outcomes of Saturday's games. Orlando City and the New York Red Bulls, facing crucial defensive and offensive absences, could find themselves at a disadvantage. The LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders face uncertainty depending on the fitness of key players. These injuries add an extra layer of unpredictability to the matches.

Betting Odds Changes

These injuries likely influenced pre-match betting odds, although the specific changes vary depending on the bookmaker. Remember to gamble responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose.

Conclusion

This MLS team injury report highlighted key absences impacting Saturday's MLS games. Several teams face challenges due to injuries to key players, potentially influencing the results significantly. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for fans, fantasy players, and those interested in game predictions. Understanding the impact of player absences is key to making informed decisions.

Call to Action: Check back regularly for updated MLS team injury reports to stay ahead of the game! Knowing the latest injury news is vital for making informed decisions regarding fantasy football lineups and predicting Saturday’s MLS match outcomes. We'll keep you updated on the latest MLS injury news!