Mauricio Pineda

Mauricio Pineda, at 27, is carving out a respectable niche in the heart of Chicago Fire's defence with a playing style that balances defensive solidity and unexpected attacking flair. His ability to recover the ball is commendable, showcasing a knack for reading the game and positioning himself well to snuff out opposition attacks. While his one-on-one defending could use some polishing, Pineda's progressive passing emerges as a standout feature in his scout report, allowing him to build play from the back effectively. Surprisingly adept in chance creation for a centre back, he's a hidden asset when stepping forward, offering a level of goal threat that many defenders lack. However, his ball retention might need refining to ensure he doesn't concede possession too cheaply. Overall, Pineda's player stats suggest a defender with the versatility to contribute across the pitch, making him an intriguing talent to watch in MLS.