Xavier Valdez Bio
Xavier William Valdez Derrig (born 23 November 2003) is a professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper. Standing 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) tall, he is recognized for his length and reflexes between the posts. Born in the United States, he represents the Dominican Republic at international level and currently plays in Major League Soccer.
Early Life and Background
Valdez was born in Harlem, New York, U.S. He grew up in a bicultural household with a Dominican father and an American mother, which shaped his dual identity from an early age. Raised in a city famous for producing top athletic talent, he was surrounded by opportunities to play football from a young age.
He began his youth career with Manhattan SC, where he was originally deployed as a winger. After a significant growth spurt, his coaches moved him into a goalkeeper role, a decision that ultimately defined his professional path. He later relocated to Minnesota as a high school sophomore, enrolling at Shattuck-Saint Mary’s, a school well known for developing elite-level players in the United States.
Path to Soccer
Valdez continued his development at Shattuck-Saint Mary’s, refining the technical and tactical skills required to play the goalkeeper position at a high level. His progress at the school attracted the attention of Major League Soccer scouts, and in July 2020, he joined the youth academy at Houston Dynamo.
Within the Dynamo academy, he trained in a professional environment and worked closely with experienced goalkeeping coaches. His steady improvement over two seasons in the academy setup earned him a professional contract and put him on the pathway to first-team football in MLS.
Xavier Valdez Career
Early Career (2022–2024)
On 27 February 2022, Xavier William Valdez Derrig signed a homegrown contract with Houston Dynamo, formally beginning his senior career. The deal reflected the club’s confidence in a young goalkeeper who had come through their own academy ranks. During his time in Houston, he trained with the first team while continuing his development at the professional level.
On 7 November 2024, following the conclusion of the 2024 MLS season, Houston Dynamo declined the contract option on Valdez, making him a free agent. The decision opened the door for a new chapter in his career and led him to seek opportunities with a new organization.
Nashville SC Era (2025–Present)
On 10 January 2025, Valdez signed with Nashville SC on a one-year contract, with club options for both of the following two seasons. The move gave him a fresh start in a competitive environment within Major League Soccer. At Nashville SC, he is expected to compete for minutes and continue his growth as a professional goalkeeper.
Driving Style and Strengths
Valdez combines his 1.95 m frame with agility and shot-stopping instincts developed across multiple youth systems. His experience in the Houston Dynamo academy and his international exposure with the Dominican Republic have given him a strong tactical understanding of the position. Working within the Nashville SC goalkeeping department, he continues to build a reputation as a reliable shot-stopper.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the defining moments of his early career came when he signed his homegrown deal with Houston Dynamo in February 2022, marking his transition from academy prospect to professional player. His senior international debut for the Dominican Republic, a friendly against Chile on 17 June 2023, represented another major milestone, confirming his status as a senior international goalkeeper at a young age.
Xavier Valdez Career Wins
As a goalkeeper still in the early stages of his senior career, Xavier William Valdez Derrig is focused on building a body of work at club level. His professional journey so far has included a homegrown contract, senior international caps, and youth international experience.
International Highlights
Valdez represented the Dominican Republic U20s at the 2022 CONCACAF U-20 Championship, where the team finished in second place, a notable achievement for the program. He was later called up for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, gaining experience on the global stage. He also made his senior debut in 2023, opening a new chapter in his international career.
Other Wins & Performances
Beyond his international achievements, Valdez progressed through the highly regarded youth systems at Manhattan SC, Shattuck-Saint Mary’s, and Houston Dynamo. Each step reflected his development as a goalkeeper and his readiness for the demands of professional football.
Xavier Valdez Family
Family Background and Soccer Lineage
Valdez was born in Harlem, New York, to a Dominican father and an American mother. His dual heritage played a role in his decision to represent the Dominican Republic at international level, choosing to honor his father’s national team.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Xavier William Valdez Derrig is known for his focus on his professional development. He spent his formative years in New York before moving to Minnesota for school, a transition that shaped both his personal growth and his footballing career.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 campaign marks a new beginning for Xavier William Valdez Derrig after joining Nashville SC in January. The one-year agreement, which includes club options for 2026 and 2027, gives both player and club flexibility as they evaluate the partnership. For Valdez, it represents a chance to establish himself in a new organization and build consistent minutes at the MLS level.
Coming off a strong 2024 on the international stage, including his continued involvement with the Dominican Republic senior team, Valdez brings momentum into the new season. His experience at the 2022 CONCACAF U-20 Championship and the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup has prepared him for the pressures of top-flight competition.
Looking ahead, the 2025 season will be an important test of his development and his fit within the Nashville SC goalkeeping group. Strong performances could lead to an expanded role within the squad and a longer-term place in the club’s plans.
