HERRIMAN, UTAH (Thursday, October 9th, 2025) - Real Monarchs centerback Gio Calderón has been called up by the Puerto Rico National Team for a single friendly against Argentina. Originally scheduled for October 13th in Chicago at Soldier field the match will now take place in Fort Lauderdale on October 14th.
Calderón has been a staple in the Monarchs back line in his first season with the Claret-and-Cobalt. Acquired from New England Revolution II over the offseason Calderón has appeared in 20 matches, starting in 17 of them. Calderón will use this time to prepare for next weekend's MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs match between Real Monarchs and Minnesota United FC 2 as the Monarchs are set to host its first ever MLS NEXT Pro match against on October 19th. Taking place at Zions Bank Stadium, tickets will be available at both the door and online via SeatGeek.
Real Monarchs (13-7-8, 51pts, 4th West) completed its fourth MLS NEXT Pro campaign last Sunday defeating Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 4-1. The fourth place finish marks the highest point total and finish for Real Monarchs throughout its MLSNP era. The Claret-and-Cobalt finished the second-half of the season competing in seventeen consecutive matches without a bye, averaging one match every five days throughout that period (June 29 - October 5). Throughout the home stretch, Real Monarchs averaged 2.05 ppg behind second year head coach Mark Lowry.
