Houston Dynamo FC Squad 2025
The Houston Dynamo FC, a cornerstone of Major League Soccer (MLS), has consistently strived to build a competitive and dynamic squad capable of challenging for titles. As the 2025 season approaches, the club has meticulously assembled a roster brimming with talent, experience, and youthful exuberance. This year’s squad reflects a blend of homegrown stars, shrewd acquisitions, and seasoned veterans, all united under the banner of the Dynamo’s orange and black. With a focus on tactical versatility, technical proficiency, and a relentless work ethic, the 2025 Houston Dynamo FC squad promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Below, we delve into the specifics of the team, breaking down the players by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each individual’s contributions, background, and potential impact on the upcoming season.
Goalkeepers
- Steve Clark
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Portland Timbers, Columbus Crew, D.C. United,
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Steve Clark remains a stalwart presence between the posts for Houston Dynamo FC. Known for his commanding presence and exceptional shot-stopping abilities, Clark has been a reliable figure since joining the club in 2021. His experience in MLS, spanning over a decade, brings invaluable leadership to the squad. In 2024, Clark recorded 12 clean sheets and made 98 saves, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His distribution has also improved, with a 78% pass accuracy rate, making him a key component in building play from the back.
- Xavier Valdez
- Nationality: Dominican
- Former Clubs: Academy graduate
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Xavier Valdez, a product of the Dynamo’s youth academy, has emerged as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in MLS. At just 22 years old, Valdez has already demonstrated remarkable reflexes and composure. His breakout performance in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup, where he saved two penalties in a shootout, cemented his reputation as a future star. Valdez’s agility and ability to read the game make him a strong contender for the starting role in the near future.
- Andrew Tarbell
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: San Jose Earthquakes, Austin FC, Columbus Crew
- Transfer Fee: $100,000 (2023)
Andrew Tarbell provides depth and experience as the third-choice goalkeeper. A dependable backup, Tarbell’s familiarity with MLS dynamics ensures stability in the goalkeeping department. His 2024 season saw limited action, but he maintained a 75% save percentage in his appearances, proving his readiness when called upon.
Defenders
- Ethan Bartlow
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Washington Huskies (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: Drafted (2021)
Ethan Bartlow has established himself as a cornerstone of Houston’s defense. A versatile center-back, Bartlow’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has been instrumental in the Dynamo’s defensive solidity. In 2024, he averaged 4.5 clearances and 1.8 tackles per game, earning him a spot in the MLS Team of the Week on multiple occasions. His leadership qualities and aerial dominance make him a fan favorite.
- Micael dos Santos
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Cruzeiro, FC Vizela
- Transfer Fee: $1.2 million (2024)
Micael dos Santos joined the Dynamo in 2024 and quickly adapted to the rigors of MLS. A technically gifted defender, Micael excels in playing out from the back, boasting an 85% pass accuracy rate. His physicality and tactical awareness have made him a key figure in Houston’s backline.
- Griffin Dorsey
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Toronto FC, Indiana Hoosiers (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: $75,000 (2021)
Griffin Dorsey’s versatility allows him to operate as both a right-back and a winger. Known for his tireless work rate and attacking contributions, Dorsey recorded 4 assists and 2 goals in 2024. His defensive contributions, including 2.3 tackles per game, highlight his well-rounded skill set.
- Daniel Steres
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: LA Galaxy, Seattle Sounders
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Daniel Steres brings a wealth of experience to the Dynamo’s defense. A no-nonsense center-back, Steres is known for his aerial prowess and ability to organize the backline. In 2024, he won 68% of his aerial duels, making him a vital asset in set-piece situations.
- Franco Escobar
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Atlanta United, Los Angeles FC
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2023)
Franco Escobar’s aggressive style and ability to contribute offensively make him a unique asset. In 2024, he scored 3 goals and provided 2 assists from his right-back position. His defensive stats, including 2.5 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per game, underscore his balanced approach.
- Tate Schmitt
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Real Salt Lake, Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: $50,000 (2022)
Tate Schmitt serves as a reliable backup at left-back. His defensive discipline and ability to deliver accurate crosses make him a valuable squad player. Schmitt’s 2024 season saw him contribute 1 goal and 3 assists in limited appearances.
Midfielders
- Héctor Herrera
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Atlético Madrid, FC Porto, Pachuca
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Héctor Herrera remains the heartbeat of Houston’s midfield. A World Cup veteran, Herrera’s vision, passing range, and leadership are unmatched. In 2024, he recorded 8 assists and 3 goals, with a pass accuracy rate of 89%. His ability to control the tempo of the game makes him indispensable.
- Artur
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Columbus Crew, São Paulo
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2023)
Artur’s box-to-box capabilities and defensive work rate provide balance to the midfield. In 2024, he averaged 2.8 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per game, while also contributing 4 assists. His energy and tenacity are key to Houston’s pressing game.
- Coco Carrasquilla
- Nationality: Panamanian
- Former Clubs: Cartaginés, FC Toulouse
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2023)
Coco Carrasquilla’s creativity and dribbling skills make him a constant threat in the final third. In 2024, he scored 5 goals and provided 7 assists, earning him a spot in the MLS Best XI. His ability to unlock defenses with his passing and movement is unparalleled.
- Brooklyn Raines
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Academy graduate
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Brooklyn Raines is one of the most exciting young talents in the Dynamo’s ranks. At just 20 years old, Raines has already shown maturity beyond his years, with a knack for breaking up play and initiating attacks. His 2024 season saw him make 15 appearances, with a pass accuracy rate of 86%.
- Luis Caicedo
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: New England Revolution, LDU Quito
- Transfer Fee: $300,000 (2024)
Luis Caicedo’s arrival in 2024 added steel to Houston’s midfield. A tenacious ball-winner, Caicedo averaged 3.2 tackles and 2.1 interceptions per game. His ability to shield the defense and recycle possession is crucial to the team’s structure.
- Brad Smith
- Nationality: Australian
- Former Clubs: Seattle Sounders, Bournemouth
- Transfer Fee: $200,000 (2023)
Brad Smith’s versatility allows him to play as a left-back or left midfielder. Known for his pace and crossing ability, Smith contributed 3 assists in 2024. His defensive contributions, including 1.8 tackles per game, make him a well-rounded option.
Forwards
- Sebastián Ferreira
- Nationality: Paraguayan
- Former Clubs: Club Libertad, Cerro Porteño
- Transfer Fee: $4.5 million (2022)
Sebastián Ferreira is Houston’s primary goal-scoring threat. A clinical finisher, Ferreira netted 15 goals in 2024, earning him the Golden Boot. His movement and ability to hold up play make him a complete forward.
- Corey Baird
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: LAFC, Real Salt Lake
- Transfer Fee: $250,000 (2021)
Corey Baird’s versatility and work ethic make him a valuable asset. In 2024, he scored 8 goals and provided 6 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple roles.
- Ibrahim Aliyu
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Former Clubs: FK Mladá Boleslav, FC Baník Ostrava
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2024)
Ibrahim Aliyu’s pace and dribbling skills have added a new dimension to Houston’s attack. In his debut season, Aliyu scored 6 goals and provided 4 assists, earning praise for his direct style of play.
- Thorleifur Úlfarsson
- Nationality: Icelandic
- Former Clubs: Duke Blue Devils (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: Drafted (2022)
Thorleifur Úlfarsson’s aerial ability and finishing make him a potent option off the bench. In 2024, he scored 5 goals in limited minutes, demonstrating his efficiency in front of goal.
- Nelson Quiñónes
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Cortuluá, Once Caldas
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2023)
Nelson Quiñónes’ flair and creativity have made him a fan favorite. In 2024, he contributed 4 goals and 5 assists, with his dribbling and vision causing problems for opposing defenses.
Conclusion
The 2025 Houston Dynamo FC squad is a testament to the club’s commitment to building a balanced and competitive team. With a mix of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and strategic signings, the Dynamo are poised to make a significant impact in MLS. Each player brings unique qualities to the table, contributing to a cohesive unit capable of challenging for silverware. As the season unfolds, the Dynamo faithful can look forward to thrilling performances and a team that embodies the spirit of Houston.