The Birmingham Legion’s season is underway as they aim to make the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. That's right. Since joining the USL in 2019, the Legion have never missed a playoff. General Manager Jay Heaps has constructed a very successful and well-built roster again this year, led by manager Tommy Soehn. Here are four key players to know for the upcoming season:
1. Enzo Martinez, Attacking Midfielder
The creative spark for the Legion, the 33 year old Uruguayan racked up an impressive 10 goals and 7 assists in the league last season. Enzo also made the All-League team as the best at his position in 2022 and has been a centerpiece for the Legion since his arrival in 2021. Known for his creativity and vision, he creates chances out of nothing with spectacular passes. Martinez provides attacking ability on par with anyone and is certainly one of the best in the USL.
2. Phanuel Kavita, Center Back
Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Legion’s captain combines with Alex Crognale to form a towering center back partnership, with the two standing 6’2” and 6’5" respectively. Kavita arrived at the Legion in 2020 and Crognale has been at the Legion since the club’s first game in 2019, and the combination of the two has been a key reason the Legion have made the playoffs every year of their existence. The leadership and communication Kavita provides is the rock of the Legion’s defense.
3. Fernando Delgado, Goalkeeper
This season represents a passing of the torch between the posts for the Legion, as 37 year old veteran Matt Van Oekel makes way for the 17 year old prodigy Delgado. The charismatic keeper Van Oekel had been the starting keeper since the club’s inception, and kept 42 clean sheets in 137 games, but now is the time for the club to shift from him into the future. Delgado’s massive potential is already shining through, and his modern play style brings a new dimension to the team. His passing ability out of the back and sweeper-keeper style of play allows the team to retain possession, while his proactivity off his line prevents chances from developing. Delgado is on loan from the Real Monarchs, and it remains to be seen if he will be signed permanently, so make sure to watch him this season.
4. Stéfano Pinho, Striker
If you like goals, you’ll love Stéfano Pinho. The Legion’s new signing from Indy Eleven, Pinho will look to be the Legion’s star man in attack this season. The combination between Pinho and Enzo Martinez will be breathtaking, as the full flair of the two shines through. The Brazilian scored a whopping 4 goals in a single match against Chattanooga Red Wolves and dispatched an additional goal in just his second league start. Pinho will continue to add more goals and is certain to become a fan favorite.
One for the future: Finn Calloway, Left Winger
A product of the Birmingham Legion youth academy, the 17 year old Mountain Brook native has already appeared for the Legion. While he might not get much game time this season as he learns to play at a professional level, he may develop into the next Birmingham great like Chris Richards. His creativity, golden right boot, and ability to beat anyone on the dribble means when Calloway glides down the wing it is a sight to behold. After performing well throughout all youth levels, it may be time for Calloway to break into the first team.