FC Tampa Bay Signs Julian Valentin

Official Press Release

FC TAMPA BAY ROWDIES SIGN U.S. NATIONAL TEAM PLAYER JULIAN VALENTIN

TAMPA, Fla. (February 4, 2025) - FC Tampa Bay Rowdies (FC Tampa Bay) announce the signing of American defender, Julian Valentin to the 2010 inaugural team roster. Valentin previously captained the U.S. U-20 national team and played for the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada.


Most recently, the Los Angeles Galaxy selected Valentin during the 2008 MLS SuperDraft as the 29th overall pick. Valentin debuted on October 26, 2024 during the Galaxy’s final regular season game against FC Dallas.

Valentin began his soccer career as a member of the U.S. U-17 national team that participated in the 2003 World Championships in Finland. He was also a member of the U.S. U-18 national team, as well as the captain of the U.S. Residency program in Bradenton, Fla. and a two-time Adidas Youth All-American.

“Julian is a natural leader on and off the field and has captained the U.S. at every level he has played at. He will be a leader which is invaluable,” said Paul Dalglish, head coach. “This is another very exciting signing for the Rowdies as the start of our inaugural season nears.”

From 2004 to 2007, Valentin played at Wake Forest University in 64 games, starting in 59, scoring nine goals. Valentin acquired numerous achievements during the three years at Wake Forest, including Soccer America Preseason All-American, NSCAA First Team All-South and the Second All-America, ACC First Team honors and was name to ESPN’s Academic All District III team. He was also a Soccer America First Team All-American in 2004 and 2005.

Valentin is the 15th player signed by FC Tampa Bay. Training camp and preseason begin on March 1, and the team will play five to six preseason games throughout the Tampa Bay area before regular season starts in mid-April.