Show FC Dallas Midfielder #21 – Player Profile, Stats, and Career Overview
Let’s talk FC Dallas. You can’t really miss Show, the midfielder who rocks number 21. Show—full name Manuel Luís da Silva Cafumana—brings a real international flair and a ton of energy right to the center of that Dallas midfield. He landed in Texas on loan from Maccabi Haifa, and honestly, he wasted no time making his presence felt. His control, passing, and defensive grit? You see it every match.
If you follow international soccer, you’ve probably seen Show suit up for Angola’s national team. That call-up says a lot about his skill and reputation. Stats only tell part of the story, but if you’re into numbers, you’ll notice he’s been steady, giving Dallas a calm, reliable anchor whenever he’s on the field.
Let’s check out Show’s key stats for the season:
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| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 6 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in |
| Weight | 176 lbs |
Stick around and you’ll see why Show’s carving out an important role for FC Dallas as the year rolls on.
Contents
- 1 Profile of Manuel Luís da Silva Cafumana (Show)
- 2 FC Dallas and MLS Career
- 3 International Career with Angola
- 4 Club Career Before FC Dallas
- 5 European Club Experience
- 6 Notable Matches and Achievements
- 7 Transfer History and Contracts
- 8 Connection to Luanda and Early Life
- 9 Development and Youth Career
- 10 Impact on North American Soccer
Profile of Manuel Luís da Silva Cafumana (Show)
Manuel Luís da Silva Cafumana—everyone calls him Show—is an Angolan midfielder running the show for FC Dallas in the number 21 shirt. His journey from Luanda all the way to Major League Soccer? It’s the story of a guy who’s played at a high level and brings a defensive edge every time out.
Personal Background
Show was born in Luanda, Angola, on March 6, 1999. He grew up surrounded by football and quickly made a name for himself with his work ethic and talent.
By his late teens, scouts started noticing him, and he moved on to bigger clubs outside Angola. Now at 26, Show’s played in both African leagues and European clubs. His move to the U.S. shows he’s always looking to test himself, and he’s ready to contribute at a high level.
Off the field, teammates and coaches respect him for his humility and team-first mentality.
Playing Style and Position
You’ll usually spot Show sitting deep in the midfield. He loves breaking up plays, reading the game, and sparking attacks from the back.
Physically, he’s 5’10” and 165 pounds—pretty balanced between agility and strength. On the ball, he keeps things moving and rarely gives it away. His tackles are sharp, which helps him avoid unnecessary fouls.
Scoring isn’t his main job, but he does pop up with key passes and the odd goal if the opportunity is there.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what he brings as a defensive midfielder:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Passing Accuracy | High |
| Tackling | Strong |
| Positioning | Excellent |
| Aerial Ability | Above Average |
| Injuries | Rare, good durability |
Key Career Milestones
Show kicked off his pro career in Angola, then moved to Europe—he even had a stint in Bulgaria with Ludogorets Razgrad. Before heading to Dallas, he played for Maccabi Haifa in Israel. The guy’s seen a lot of different leagues and styles.
For Angola’s national team, he’s earned over 40 caps and played in some big African tournaments. He debuted for the national team in 2018 and has been a regular ever since. Injuries haven’t slowed him down much, which is a big plus for any team.
If you want to dig deeper, check out the FC Dallas player profile page or his stats on Transfermarkt.
FC Dallas and MLS Career
When Show arrived in Dallas, he brought instant strength and experience to the midfield. From his debut, he showed up with leadership and a cool head.
Joining FC Dallas
Maybe you first heard Show’s name when he joined FC Dallas in August 2024. Dallas brought him in after Liam Fraser’s season-ending injury. Show was 25 and already had plenty of European experience with clubs like Maccabi Haifa and Lille.
His signing gave Dallas the international know-how they needed, especially with injuries piling up. Dallas wanted someone ready to step in, and Show fit the bill. The midfield changed almost overnight, and he blended in fast.
Appearances and Impact
Show didn’t waste any time—he jumped right into the starting lineup and played all 90 minutes in his debut against D.C. United on August 24, 2024. By the end of the year, he racked up seven MLS appearances, always reliable when called upon.
His defensive work and hustle stood out. Fans saw him shielding the backline, breaking up attacks, and calmly distributing under pressure. He didn’t score, but he made a big impact in ways that don’t always show up in the box score.
Show’s FC Dallas 2024 Season Stats
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Starts | 7 |
| Minutes Played | 630 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 |
| Red Cards | 0 |
Key Teammates and Coaches
You probably know some of the names lining up with Show in midfield. Paxton Pomykal, for example, brings energy and vision, and he and Show worked well together.
Reggie Cannon led the defense and helped Show get comfortable in MLS. Head coach Nico Estévez and his staff encouraged Show to play his game—break up attacks, keep possession, and let his experience shine.
With Show locking down the middle, Dallas players could push forward with more confidence.
MLS Competitions and Results
The 2024 MLS season threw a lot at FC Dallas—injuries, inconsistency, and some tough matches. But when Show joined, you could see the midfield start to settle down. The team managed some solid wins and hung tough in close games, thanks in part to Show’s ability to control the middle.
Defensively, he made a big difference, even if the team still struggled to turn that control into goals. In a wild match on June 25, 2025, Dallas lost 4-2 to San Jose—proof there’s still work to do in defense and finishing. But with Show on the pitch, Dallas looked more organized.
Show’s first season in Dallas felt like a transition period for both him and the club. His performances give fans hope for a more stable midfield moving forward. For more info, check out the FC Dallas official player page.
International Career with Angola
Show’s been a regular for Angola’s national team since his debut. He’s played key roles in tournaments, qualifiers, and friendlies.
National Team Debut
Show made his senior debut for Angola at just 19. That’s pretty impressive, right? His first cap came against South Africa on March 21, 2018. Right from the start, coaches trusted him to lock down the midfield, break up attacks, and move the ball forward.
He quickly became a go-to option for Angola. Coaches gave him regular starts in both friendlies and competitive matches. His maturity and tactical smarts turned heads early on, and you still see those qualities today.
Key Debut Numbers:
| Match Type | Debut Age | Opponent | First Cap Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Friendly | 19 | South Africa | March 21, 2018 |
Africa Cup Of Nations
The Africa Cup of Nations really stands out in Show’s international journey. He played a central role for Angola in the 2023 AFCON, starting every match and helping them reach the quarterfinals. That was Angola’s best run in years, and Show was a big part of it.
His defensive work and passing were huge during both the group stage and knockouts. He rarely came off the field, showing off his fitness and ability to anchor the midfield. In that 2023 tournament, Show helped Angola keep things tight at the back, frustrating plenty of opponents.
2023 AFCON Stats:
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Tournament Phase |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 360 | Quarterfinals (full matches) |
International Friendlies and Qualifiers
Show’s journey with Angola includes over 40 appearances in friendlies and qualifiers. He’s a regular for Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying matches.
In those big games, Show brings balance—protecting the back line and starting attacks. You often see him in the starting lineup, especially when Angola needs a steady hand. His presence helps keep Angola competitive, even against top sides.
When he plays in friendlies, he keeps the same intensity, helping new players settle in. Whether it’s qualifiers or test matches, Show’s leadership is always noticeable. You can find his full career details here.
Club Career Before FC Dallas
Show’s path to Dallas took him through some of the best leagues in Africa, Europe, and Israel. At every stop, he built up his defensive skills and made a mark as a dependable midfielder.
Girabola and Early Years
You first saw Show’s name pop up in Angola, where he started with 1º de Agosto in the Girabola, the top league there. He stood out for his ball-winning and tactical awareness, joining the senior squad early.
With 1º de Agosto, he made 61 league appearances and helped the team win the league. By 2019, he’d done enough to catch the eye of European scouts. His Girabola performances and youth national team games raised his profile and value.
Key Stats with 1º de Agosto
| Season | Appearances | Goals | League |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017-19 | 61 | 2 | Girabola |
Belenenses SAD and Liga NOS
Show moved to Europe in summer 2019, signing with Lille, but they immediately loaned him to Portuguese club Belenenses SAD in Liga NOS. The jump brought a faster, more tactical game than he’d seen in Angola.
He adapted quickly, notching 26 league appearances in the 2019-20 season. Show became a regular starter, playing both holding and box-to-box roles. His performances against teams like Boavista really showcased his ability to intercept passes and cover ground.
Belenenses SAD – 2019-20 Liga NOS
- Appearances: 26
- Goals: 0
- Notable performance: Played the full 90 vs Boavista, completing 43 passes at 87% accuracy
Maccabi Haifa and Ligat Ha’al
After his time in Portugal, Show took his talents to Israeli powerhouse Maccabi Haifa, jumping into the thick of Ligat Ha’al action. Joining a club that’s always in the mix for European qualifiers and Israeli finals? That’s no small step.
Show logged 31 matches for Maccabi Haifa, making his mark in both league and cup runs. He became known for steady defensive work in midfield, and every now and then, he’d spark an attack.
His tactical discipline and consistency in Israel made clubs abroad take notice. Suddenly, he was a hot target for loan moves.
You can dig deeper into his Maccabi Haifa seasons on the FC Dallas official player bio.
European Club Experience
Show’s journey across European football has brought him big transfers, rare chances in top leagues, and a taste of elite continental tournaments.
He’s played for both French and Bulgarian clubs, each stop bringing its own set of challenges and a few highlights.
LOSC Lille in Ligue 1
Show’s move to LOSC Lille in Ligue 1 showed off his ambition. He wanted to prove himself in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.
Lille signed him to a five-year deal in July 2019. That’s a club that’s always fighting for Europe, and they love to develop young talent.
Show never cracked the first team for a league match, but Lille clearly saw his potential. His time there, even just in training and around the squad, set a high standard and boosted his value in Europe.
| Season | Club | League | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-20 | Lille (contract) | Ligue 1 | 0 | 0 |
Lille wasted no time setting up loans to help him gain real match experience.
Ludogorets Razgrad and Bulgarian Success
Next up, Show landed at Ludogorets Razgrad, the big dogs in Bulgaria. This is where things really started to click.
Ludogorets gave him the platform to score his first three goals in European soccer. He got meaningful minutes in both domestic league battles and European matches.
The club’s known for winning titles and playing in continental tournaments, and Show played his part in both league matches and Super Cup chases.
His time in Bulgaria showed he could handle the pressure and intensity of top-level football. He stepped up as a defensive midfielder when it mattered.
European Competitions Played
European competition is where you really test a player’s mettle. Show got his first taste in UEFA Champions League qualifiers, plus appearances in the Europa League and the new Europa Conference League.
Each competition brings its own flavor. Champions League qualifiers? Fast and ruthless. The Europa League and Conference League? More tactical, more variety.
Even as a defensive midfielder, he showed up with reliability and poise in group stage and qualifying matches.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| UEFA Champions League | Yes | 0 |
| UEFA Europa League | Yes | 0 |
| UEFA Conference League | Yes | 0 |
Facing clubs from all over Europe forced him to adapt fast. He picked up vital skills for both defense and possession—key tools for his next stop at FC Dallas.
Notable Matches and Achievements
Let’s talk about impact. FC Dallas midfielder #21 has left his mark in big club and international games, plus he’s racked up some individual recognition along the way.
His career features top-league performances, international appearances, and a steady climb that’s hard to miss. That’s steady growth in action.
Significant Club Performances
One match that jumps out? His first start for FC Dallas against D.C. United on August 24, 2024. He played the full 90, setting the midfield tempo the whole way through.
In 2024, he made seven appearances for Dallas and quickly became a regular in their rotation.
Before Dallas, he played 31 times for Maccabi Haifa, getting a taste of both domestic and European competition. And let’s not forget his five-year contract with Ligue 1’s LOSC Lille, plus a key loan to Belenenses SAD.
During the 2019-20 season at Belenenses, he made 26 appearances, showing off his versatility and tactical smarts.
Club Stats Table
| Club | Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC Dallas | 2024 | 7 | 0 | N/A |
| Maccabi Haifa | 2021-2024 | 31 | 1* | N/A |
| Belenenses SAD | 2019-2020 | 26 | 0 | N/A |
*Stat unofficial, exact figures may vary
Memorable International Games
On the international stage, he’s been a fixture for Angola. He’s played in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and friendlies, breaking up plays and linking defense to attack.
You probably caught him in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he featured in some tight group stage matches.
His calmness and vision have made him a regular call-up, whether starting or coming off the bench as a key substitute. Facing higher-ranked opponents, he’s shown adaptability and serious work ethic.
If you want to see him in action, highlight reels show his knack for intercepting, distributing, and keeping possession under pressure. He helps set the rhythm for both club and country.
Individual Awards and Highlights
He’s picked up personal recognition thanks to his steady play and growth. Lille handed him a long-term deal—something you don’t see every day for a young player.
He played a role in Maccabi Haifa’s run at the Israeli Premier League title, grabbing domestic trophies along the way.
Coaches and teammates praise his maturity on the pitch and discipline off it. You don’t get that kind of respect every day, especially at his age.
His progress shows up in the stats and in his reputation as a reliable, team-first midfielder. Fans and peers know he’s the real deal.
You can always follow his rise and see the trust he’s earned via official FC Dallas updates.
Transfer History and Contracts
FC Dallas midfielder #21 has built his career on both domestic and international moves. His latest signings show the club’s commitment and their eye for young international talent.
Transfer Timeline
You can follow his recent path right to FC Dallas, who signed him from North Texas SC. That move became official in 2025, with a contract through the end of the season and options for 2026 and 2027.
Before Dallas, he played in Brazil and built a reputation as a promising young midfielder.
His transfer to MLS required the usual paperwork—international transfer certificate, p-1 visa, the works. Once he got those, he joined FC Dallas under an international roster slot, reserved for players without US citizenship or a green card.
| Year | From Club | To Club | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | North Texas SC | FC Dallas | Signed through 2025 (options: 2026, 2027) |
| 2022 | Brazilian Club | North Texas SC | Developmental contract |
Transfer Values and Market Trends
Market values and fees matter more than ever now. FC Dallas picked him up for a competitive fee, showing MLS clubs are serious about investing in young international talent.
MLS teams have started to lean into signing younger players from abroad, hoping for growth and maybe a big resale down the line.
Since joining FC Dallas, his market value has stayed close to similar transfers in the league. Midfielders his age who get regular minutes usually see that value climb.
The club holds the right to extend his contract, giving them flexibility if his market value pops—smart move for long-term planning.
You can check out more on his contract and transfer details at this tracking player moves page and the official FC Dallas transfer records.
Connection to Luanda and Early Life
Show’s football roots run deep in Luanda, Angola. That city and its culture shaped his early football dreams.
Hometown Influence
You can see the Luanda influence in Show’s playing style. Born March 6, 1999, he grew up in Angola’s capital, a place bursting with football culture.
Every neighborhood in Luanda seems to have a match going, whether it’s on dusty streets or open lots.
His family and local mentors pushed him to love the game early on. Youth clubs in the city taught him technical skills and tactical awareness.
Daily exposure to football in Luanda’s competitive environment gave him a solid foundation.
Plenty of young players in Luanda look up to Show. They know that with enough skill and determination, international opportunities are out there.
You can see Luanda’s community spirit in Show’s discipline and focus every time he steps on the field. Support from local coaches and his family gave him the drive to succeed both at home and abroad.
Estádio 11 de Novembro
Estádio 11 de Novembro stands out as one of Angola’s most iconic stadiums, and it’s a huge part of Show’s football story.
You’ll find it in the southern part of Luanda, and this place can pack in close to 50,000 fans. It’s the go-to spot for big league showdowns and national team battles.
Show has taken the field here for youth tournaments and big moments with the Angola national team.
The energy from the crowd? Absolutely electric. It’s the kind of atmosphere that lights a fire in any player, and it definitely fueled Show’s drive from an early age.
He got a real taste of the professional game right here. Playing in such a famous stadium pushed him to get ready for clubs beyond Angola.
You can’t help but notice the pride and excitement that fills Estádio 11 de Novembro. Those experiences shaped Show’s confidence when the pressure was on.
The stadium still stands as a symbol of his football roots and his ongoing bond with his hometown.
Key Stats from Early Career in Luanda
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Luanda, Angola |
| Youth Clubs | Various in Luanda |
| Major Stadium | Estádio 11 de Novembro |
| National Team Debut | At Estádio 11 de Novembro |
| Notable Local Influence | Community coaches and mentors |
Development and Youth Career
Show’s journey to the FC Dallas first team has roots in both Africa and the U.S.
He spent time in Angola’s competitive soccer scene, then made the jump into one of Major League Soccer’s top academies. That mix gave him a foundation built on tough, varied experiences.
FC Dallas Academy Experience
When Show joined the FC Dallas Academy, he adapted fast.
The club’s reputation for youth development is no joke—they’ve got great facilities and sharp coaches. Show played as a midfielder, lining up with some real talent and future pros.
He took part in high-profile matches at different age levels. The training schedule zeroed in on sharpening technical skills and tactical awareness.
Coaches put a big focus on ball control, quick decision-making, and knowing where to be on the pitch.
Here’s a quick look at some numbers from his Academy days:
| Season | Appearances | Position | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 24 | Midfielder | 3 |
| 2023 | 28 | Midfielder | 5 |
You could see Show’s progress every season.
He broke up plays in midfield and chipped in on offense, catching the eye of scouts and senior coaches.
Early Training in Angola
Show kicked off his soccer dream in Angola, where the game inspires kids everywhere.
You can trace his start to local pitches, where early training pushed stamina, technical skills, and a little creativity with the ball.
In Angola’s youth programs, coaches emphasized small-sided games, ball mastery, and quick feet.
Those drills became the backbone of Show’s game. He learned to adapt fast against older, stronger players, which toughened him up.
Facing tough opponents in Angola’s youth leagues, Show built grit and determination.
That blend of African and international influence shaped his style before he ever set foot in the U.S.
His upbringing in Angola set the tone for the disciplined, skillful player you see now.
If you want more on his national team call-ups and club journey, check out the FC Dallas announcement on Show’s international experience.
Impact on North American Soccer
Show’s arrival in Major League Soccer brings a wealth of international experience and a competitive mindset that’s tough to ignore.
He adjusted to the American game quickly and started connecting with fans by putting in strong performances.
Contribution to United States Soccer
You notice the difference in FC Dallas’s midfield as soon as Show steps in.
As a defensive midfielder, he brings balance to the attack and shields the back line. His work rate and passing ability? They set the bar for young American players coming up.
Show’s time with the Angola national team—31 caps and a deep Africa Cup of Nations run—brings leadership to the locker room.
Young MLS players benefit from training next to a guy who’s faced off against top African, European, and Israeli clubs.
Here’s a snapshot of Show’s recent stats for FC Dallas in MLS:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Pass Completion % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 12 | 1 | 2 | 86 |
His steady play gives FC Dallas more tactical flexibility. The team looks tougher to break down and more confident in tight games when Show’s in the lineup.
Influence in Canada and Mexico
Show’s presence in MLS does more than just help Dallas. When FC Dallas goes up against teams from Canada and Mexico—think Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps, Montreal Impact, or those tough Liga MX clubs in the Leagues Cup or CONCACAF Champions Cup—his performances really grab attention.
Young Canadian midfielders and up-and-coming Mexican prospects actually look at Show and see what they could learn from an international veteran. His disciplined, physical style? It gives North American clubs a real taste of what top-level midfield play should be.
As FC Dallas jumps into these cross-border tournaments, you’ll hear coaches and scouts start dropping Show’s name more often. They point to him as a prime example of the kind of international talent that’s shaping the league.
When he lines up against Canadian and Mexican teams, he raises the bar for every midfielder out there. Watching him compete at a high level week after week, you can’t help but notice—North American soccer is on the rise, and Show’s right in the thick of it.
