PAPILLION, Neb. – Union Omaha today announced the signing of midfielder Joe Gallardo, pending league and federation approval. Gallardo returns to the United States after playing abroad the last two seasons in Mexico.

Gallardo grew up playing in the academy system for Liga MX side CF Monterrey until 2016 when he joined Orlando City SC’s U-17 squad. Following his debut professional season in the USL with Orlando City B, Gallardo moved to the newly established USL League One in 2019. He had a breakout season in League One playing for the Richmond Kickers in 2019, when he led the club in goals and shots, earning a spot on the League One All-League First Team.

Following his time in Richmond, the San Diego, Calif. native was transferred to then-USL Championship side Real Monarchs SLC. After just one appearance with the Monarchs in 2020, Gallardo moved to Liga MX’s Querétaro FC. With Los Gallos Blancos, Gallardo made seven appearances and scored one goal during the 2021 Liga MX Clausura campaign. This past season, he was loaned out to Correcaminos UAT of the Liga de Expansión MX where he made 18 appearances.

Gallardo has also appeared at the youth international level for the United States, spending time with the U-15, U-17 and U-19 squads and scoring 19 goals over the course of his 32-match youth international career. Gallardo made a trio of appearances for the Stars and Stripes at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

“Joe’s a talented player that’s gained some great experience here and in Mexico over the last few years,” Omaha Head Coach Dominic Casciato said. “He’s versatile, has good technical quality, and is eager to make his mark again in League One after being named an All-League selection back in 2019. He's young enough to still have room to grow and improve before he reaches his peak, so I'm excited to see what he brings to our team this season.”

“Joe is a creative player who is so dangerous when running with the ball,” Union Omaha General Manager Peter Marlette said. “He's going to be a constant threat and I think our fans will love what he brings to our game.”

“I’m super excited to be joining this organization, and I’m ready to give it all for the crest,” Gallardo said.