Louisville City FC has made a significant signing to bolster the team’s attack. The club has announced the signing of Maarten Pouwels, a towering 6-foot-7 center forward from the Netherlands. Pending league and federation approval, Pouwels will become the tallest field player ever rostered by LouCity. 

Coach Danny Cruz expressed his excitement about the signing, saying that Pouwels had been on the club’s radar for almost a year. From a data perspective, Pouwels fits nicely into the team’s game model, and after going through the interview process, the coaching staff believes he will be a great fit in the locker room. The Dutchman’s quality on the ball and ability to bring his teammates into the game with holdup play stood out even more than his imposing size. 

Pouwels is only 24 years old and has played professionally since 2018. He started with SV Dalfsen, a youth club in his hometown, before moving to Go Ahead Eagles, another second-division club at the time. Pouwels famously scored with his first touch of the ball in his pro debut, a cross in a Go Ahead Eagles win. He then had a stint at SC Cambuur, which won the league in 2020-2021, before most recently playing for Almere City in the Netherlands’ second division. 

“I have played five years in the Netherlands, and I think this is the right time, and Louisville City FC is the right club to make a move,” Pouwels said. “I was looking to go abroad, and this situation felt good from the start as Louisville presents a fresh start and the chance to earn more minutes. I’ve met some staff members, and they made a great impression. I can tell I’m joining a solid club with a great stadium and fan support.” 

LouCity’s next match is on May 13th, when they host Miami FC. Fans will have to wait until Pouwels’ visa is approved and he moves to Louisville before they can see him in action. However, when he does join the team, Pouwels will undoubtedly bring a new dynamic to the attack, and his hold-up play will help the team create more chances. With Pouwels’ addition, LouCity looks poised to make a strong push for the playoffs this season.