PAPILLION, Neb. - Union Omaha today announced the return of 2024 USL League One Final MVP Joe Gallardo, pending league and federation approval.

In two seasons with Omaha, Gallardo has helped the Owls claim back-to-back USL League One Players' Shields and one league title. The forward has racked up 64 appearances, nine goals and 10 assists across all competitions with Omaha.

"I'm delighted to be bringing Joe back for the 2025 season," said Omaha Head Coach Dominic Casciato. "He has been a joy to work with over the past two seasons and has established himself as one of the top performers in the league.

"He's a tireless worker and really embodies our identity as a quality player who's willing to sacrifice to help the team be successful, and with his return secured, it sets us up nicely as we look to improve every season."

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 Championship 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. 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. In 2022, 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.