STIVEN JIMENEZ FC Cincinnati Midfielder #37 – Rising Talent and Key Stats
Stiven Jimenez stands as the youngest player in FC Cincinnati history to sign a first-team contract. That makes him one of the brightest young midfielders to watch in Major League Soccer, no question about it.
At just 16, Jimenez jumped up to the senior squad after climbing through the club’s youth academy. He rocks number 37 and lines up as a defensive midfielder, already showing a surprising amount of maturity on the pitch.
Fans and soccer watchers keep a close eye on Jimenez as he fights for more minutes in a stacked Cincinnati squad. His technical skills, smart positioning, and quick thinking really jump out.
If you’re the type who wants to catch the next wave of American soccer talent, Stiven Jimenez’s journey is one you’ll want to follow.
Contents
Stiven Jimenez: Player Profile
Stiven Jimenez burst onto the scene with FC Cincinnati as a promising midfielder. His early debut, young age, and homegrown status really set him apart.
Background and Personal Information
Stiven Jimenez plays midfield for FC Cincinnati, wearing number 37. Despite his age, he keeps his cool both on and off the field, staying focused during tough games.
He developed in the club’s youth system, where coaches noticed his work ethic and sharp reading of the game.
Jimenez is a dual national, eligible for both the United States and Mexico. That opens even more doors and adds some real intrigue to his profile.
He’s got a reputation as a disciplined, coachable player and doesn’t chase the spotlight much.
Date of Birth and Early Life
Born June 24, 2007, in Riverdale, Maryland, Jimenez joined the FC Cincinnati academy early and committed to soccer before he was even a teenager.
He made the leap to the first team quickly, landing as the youngest player in club history to sign a contract at just 15.
He impressed in youth soccer, building a reputation among scouts for his vision and technique. His family backed him from day one, helping him juggle school and sports.
Now, Jimenez is part of a growing group of young Americans making noise in MLS.
Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Stiven Jimenez |
| Date of Birth | June 24, 2007 |
| Place of Birth | Riverdale, Maryland |
| Nationality | United States, Mexico |
Player Status and Roster Category
FC Cincinnati lists Jimenez as a homegrown player on the first-team roster. He signed his first-team contract on November 7, 2022, becoming the youngest in club history to do it.
That contract runs through 2025, with club options for 2026 and 2027.
He’s under the supplemental roster category, which lets the club add young talent without using senior roster slots. This status shows just how much Cincinnati believes in his future.
You can read more on the official FC Cincinnati player profile.
Role at FC Cincinnati
Stiven Jimenez has carved out a real presence in FC Cincinnati’s midfield. He’s still the youngest player to sign a first-team contract for the club and continues to play a flexible role as the roster for 2025 takes shape.
First-Team Contract and Homegrown Player Status
Jimenez put pen to paper on his first-team Homegrown Player contract in November 2022 at just 16. His deal runs through 2025, with club options for 2026 and 2027.
This early commitment made him the youngest first-team signing for Cincinnati—a clear sign of the club’s faith in him.
Homegrown Player status means Jimenez rose through Cincinnati’s academy, putting in time with the U14, U15, and U17 squads. That path built a strong connection to the club and gave him valuable training.
Jimenez joined the senior team at a young age and now stands as a great example of the club’s focus on academy graduates. You’ll find more details on his official profile.
Responsibilities as a Midfielder
Jimenez mainly operates as a central midfielder, juggling defensive and offensive duties. He helps recover the ball, keeps possession, and pushes the team forward.
He often drops deep to receive passes, links up play, and moves into attacking spots when needed.
Coaches expect him to read the game, help with pressing, and create passing options for teammates. The club counts on his energy and sharp instincts to control the midfield.
Even though he’s still developing, Jimenez already shows the discipline of a veteran and holds his own against tough MLS opponents. Check out more on his style in his player profile.
Key Midfield Responsibilities
- Distribute and keep the ball
- Break up opposition plays
- Support attack and defense
- Stay calm under pressure
2025 Season Squad Placement
For 2025, Jimenez stays on as a squad player for FC Cincinnati, wearing number 37. He fills a supplemental roster spot, letting the club manage younger Homegrown Players without using senior slots.
That setup gives him regular matchday experience while he continues to grow professionally.
The club keeps a close watch on his minutes, balancing game time with practice. Cincinnati aims to develop him, giving him chances in MLS, the U.S. Open Cup, and sometimes in international competitions like the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
As both an academy grad and a first-team player, Jimenez is a big piece of the 2025 squad puzzle.
| Season | Squad # | Contract Status | Roster Slot | Minutes Played (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 37 | Homegrown | Supplemental | See details |
Club Career Development
Stiven Jimenez built his game with FC Cincinnati through years of hard work and steady progress. His rise from the youth academy to the pro ranks highlights both his talent and the club’s push to develop young players.
FC Cincinnati Academy Journey
Jimenez joined the FC Cincinnati Academy in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself at multiple age levels. He played for the U14, U15, and U17 teams, always in the center of the park.
The academy gave him structure and regular competition—exactly what any young player needs to reach the next level.
He trained with some of the region’s top prospects and got exposure to advanced coaching and tactics. That helped him sharpen his vision, passing, and defensive skills.
During the 2022 preseason, Jimenez trained with the first team. That was a big step, letting him see what’s expected at the top.
His time in the academy set the foundation for his success in the higher ranks. That steady involvement made it clear FC Cincinnati saw him in their future, and it all paid off when he signed his first pro contract.
Progression to FC Cincinnati 2
After standing out in the academy, Jimenez moved up to FC Cincinnati 2, the club’s MLS NEXT Pro team. Competing here meant tougher, older opponents and a faster game.
That jump to FC Cincinnati 2 forced Jimenez to make quicker decisions and handle a faster tempo.
Here’s a quick look at his stats with FC Cincinnati 2:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 13 | 1 | 0 |
The club’s technical staff kept a close eye on his performances. Playing at this level helped him fine-tune his positioning and passing under pressure.
Those lessons proved valuable as he worked his way onto the first team.
Youth Academy Experience
Before Cincinnati, Jimenez built his technical base in Brazil, playing futsal with Pulo do Gato Futsal. That gave him sharp ball control and quick feet early on—skills that stood out when he arrived in Ohio.
Once in the academy, Jimenez adapted to American youth soccer by showing solid tactical flexibility. He played in different age groups, learning to handle various competition levels and physical demands.
As he moved up to U17, he took on more leadership and got more involved in buildup play.
This broad youth experience gave him the agility and awareness you want in a modern midfielder. Jimenez’s journey mirrors the club’s commitment to homegrown talent, making him a key figure in Cincinnati’s history.
For more, check out his player profile and this recent player analysis.
International Experience
Stiven Jimenez brings a unique international profile, eligible for both the United States and Mexico at the youth level. He’s developed with exposure to both soccer cultures and has taken chances in age-group squads for each.
United States Youth National Teams
Jimenez has earned call-ups for United States youth national teams during his time as a promising academy player. These invites show how highly coaches rated him among central midfield prospects in the U.S.
At national camps, coaches evaluated his technical skills, vision, and athleticism. The U.S. system values tactical training and versatility, and Jimenez showed he could deliver on both.
His participation in these camps marked him as a rising talent, and he joined both training sessions and scrimmages with other top American prospects.
Key Stats with U.S. Youth Teams:
| Year | Team Level | Appearances | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | U15, U17 | Multiple camps | Consistent call-ups, progress in rank |
These experiences with the U.S. youth teams shaped the early stages of his international career.
Mexican Youth National Team Eligibility
Thanks to his heritage, Jimenez can also represent Mexico. He trained and played at youth levels in Brazil before joining Cincinnati, but his connection to Mexican soccer grew as he developed.
In 2024, Jimenez suited up for Mexico’s U17 team, adding another layer to his dual-national story. Coaches appreciated his American development and his technical skills, which fit the Mexican style.
This appearance for Mexico’s youth squad shows he’s on the radar for both federations.
His inclusion in Mexican youth teams highlights the interest from the Mexican Football Federation, as they keep tabs on his progress with Cincinnati and beyond.
For more on his time with the Mexican U17s, check out his player profile at worldfootball.net.
Notable Matches and Opponents
Stiven Jimenez wasted no time making an impression after joining FC Cincinnati’s first team. His debut season gave fans a glimpse of his poise and ability to handle established MLS competition.
Debut and Early Appearances
Jimenez made his professional debut on June 21, 2023, stepping onto the pitch for FC Cincinnati in a late-game spot against Toronto FC. At just 15, he set a club record as the youngest player ever to appear in an MLS match for Cincinnati—now that’s a big vote of confidence from the staff.
He came off the bench in some tense situations, asked to help keep the midfield tight against teams like D.C. United and Philadelphia Union. These minutes were short, but for a kid his age, they felt huge.
Jimenez adjusted fast, showing a sharp sense of the game and keeping it simple with quick, effective passes. The coaches trusted him to help protect leads late, and you could see why.
| Date | Opponent | Minutes Played | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6/21/2023 | Toronto FC | 3 | 3-0 Win |
| 7/8/2023 | D.C. United | 6 | 2-2 Draw |
| 7/15/2023 | Philadelphia Union | 5 | 1-0 Win |
All matches part of the regular MLS season schedule
Matches Against MLS Rivals
Jimenez jumped into first-team action right in the thick of the MLS season. He didn’t flinch under pressure—he logged minutes against Toronto FC, a conference rival, and handled those nerve-wracking closing moments with the result on the line.
These early games against D.C. United and Philadelphia Union brought a real test. Even in brief cameos, Jimenez had to keep up with the intensity and pressing from teams that play hard.
He made key passes and helped his side hang onto leads, showing some real tactical discipline. The coaching staff seemed to trust him more with every outing, even if the minutes weren’t piling up just yet.
If you want to keep tabs on Stiven Jimenez’s performances, check out his player profile at FC Cincinnati or grab the latest stats on Transfermarkt.
Contractual Details and Roster Mechanics
Stiven Jimenez’s contract and roster status with FC Cincinnati follow Major League Soccer’s rules for young talent and budget management. His spot is a little unique—he’s a top academy product and a big investment for the club.
Homegrown Player Contract
On November 7, 2022, Jimenez signed a Homegrown Player contract, making him the youngest first-team signee ever for FC Cincinnati at just 16. This deal lets MLS teams bring academy players straight to the senior squad, skipping the draft.
His contract runs through 2025, with team options for 2026 and 2027. Since he’s a Homegrown Player, his salary cap impact is lighter, which helps the club keep young talent while staying flexible. FC Cincinnati clearly wants to build around youth, and Jimenez’s quick jump from academy to first team proves it.
His contract includes performance incentives and long-term options, giving both sides room to grow. For more details, check out his club profile and player profile.
| Year Signed | Initial Term | Option Years | Contract Type | Age at Signing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2023-2025 | 2026, 2027 | Homegrown Player | 16 |
General Allocation Money and Supplemental Slots
FC Cincinnati grabbed Jimenez’s Homegrown rights from D.C. United back in 2022, paying $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM). The deal could rise to $500,000 total if he signs a second contract and hits certain marks. D.C. United also keeps a cut if he’s traded inside MLS.
Jimenez fills a supplemental roster slot—29 or 30—areas set aside for young, homegrown prospects who don’t hit the salary cap hard. These slots let clubs invest in youth and still manage the budget. FC Cincinnati’s use of both GAM and a supplemental slot shows they’re serious about keeping and developing homegrown talent.
You’ll find more about the contract and roster slot at Transfermarkt and the official club page.
Key Mechanisms Table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| GAM to D.C. United | $50,000 (initial), up to $500,000 total |
| Supplemental Roster Slot | 29 or 30 |
| Salary Cap Impact | Reduced (homegrown + supplemental slot status) |
Youth Soccer Foundations
Stiven Jimenez started honing his soccer skills early, playing both outdoor and indoor soccer. These early years really shaped his game and set the stage for his future as a pro midfielder.
Arlington Soccer and Futsal Background
Jimenez played youth soccer in Arlington, where he really started to grow as a player. Details on his Arlington teams are a little scarce, but it’s clear his technical game picked up fast during that time.
A big turning point came when he played futsal in Brazil with Pulo do Gato Futsal. Futsal’s tight spaces and quick pace forced him to sharpen his footwork and passing—skills that now define his style.
That futsal background lets him handle the ball under pressure and react quickly in games. After coming back from Brazil, he caught FC Cincinnati’s eye and joined their academy in 2019, putting him on track for an MLS debut at just 15.
Academic and Personal Pursuits
Jimenez isn’t just about soccer—his choices off the field show how he balances academics and his pro ambitions.
University of South Florida Recruitment
The University of South Florida likes to recruit young talent from MLS academies, and Jimenez fits that mold. He’s climbed the FC Cincinnati academy ranks quickly, all while keeping up with school and his pro soccer development.
South Florida’s coaches look for discipline both on the field and in class, and Jimenez checked those boxes. Even though he committed to Cincinnati early, his academics kept colleges interested.
Here’s a quick look at what makes him stand out:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Age at Signing Pro Deal | 15 |
| High School GPA (estimated) | 3.5+ |
| MLS Academy Appearances | Over 40 |
His early pro contract and ability to juggle school and soccer set a strong example for others. Not everyone can pull that off.
Maryland Connections
Jimenez was born in Maryland, a state with a real soccer tradition. Before heading to Cincinnati, he developed with local youth teams and grew in Maryland’s competitive scene.
He keeps ties with friends and coaches from the area, and some even travel to watch him play. That support network matters, especially for a young pro finding his way.
Off the pitch, Jimenez visits family in Maryland during the offseason. Those trips help him stay grounded. You can see Maryland’s influence in his technical skills—he stands out in Cincinnati’s academy and now as a pro.
Mixing Maryland roots with Cincinnati experience gives Jimenez a solid base for his personal and professional growth.
Performance Statistics
Stiven Jimenez, now a midfielder for FC Cincinnati, plays with a cool head and discipline. His recent stats and availability give us a glimpse of his progress as a young pro.
Club and League Stats
Jimenez has made steady progress during his time at FC Cincinnati. He wears number 37 and usually lines up as a defensive midfielder. He’s still early in his career, but his appearances are starting to add up.
Here’s a look at his numbers:
| Season | Club | Competition | Appearances | Goals (g) | Assists (a) | Yellow Cards (yc) | Red Cards (rc) | Shots (sh) | Offsides (of) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | FC Cincinnati | MLS | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | MLS | 7 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
He hasn’t notched a goal or assist yet, but he’s showing promise in a defensive role. Just one yellow card so far—pretty clean for a midfielder. For more on his stats, check FC Cincinnati.
Player Status Updates
Jimenez is healthy and available for selection—no injuries or suspensions to report. He hasn’t picked up any red cards, and his match minutes have gone up this season as the coaches trust him more.
With his contract running through 2025, the club is clearly invested in his development. He usually comes on as a late-game sub, but those minutes are creeping up.
He trains with the first team and makes most matchday squads. If you want to keep up with his status, follow official updates from MLS and the club.
Media and Public Recognition
Stiven Jimenez stands out for his technical skills and his presence off the field. Becoming the youngest first-team signing in FC Cincinnati’s history has made him a name to watch among young soccer players.
Pronunciation of Stiven Jimenez
For broadcasters and fans, getting Stiven Jimenez’s name right matters. It’s pronounced “Steven he-men-ezz”—simple, but easy to trip up if you’re not careful.
Jimenez, with Mexican roots and time spent in Brazil, grew up around three languages. Still, he prefers this straightforward pronunciation. Broadcasters have started to pick up on it, and you’ll hear the correct version more often now during games.
Consistency with his name isn’t just respectful—it shows how quickly he’s become a recognizable figure. FC Cincinnati’s media team includes his pronunciation in player notes before every game, so everyone’s on the same page.
Video Highlights and Analysis
You don’t have to look far to find highlights of Stiven Jimenez’s play. Major League Soccer and FC Cincinnati keep posting video highlights that show off his defensive moves and those quick passes right in the midfield.
Analysts love to talk about Jimenez’s composure with the ball. They also point out his tactical awareness, which, let’s be honest, is pretty impressive for someone his age.
You’ll spot him in match recaps, social media breakdowns, and those YouTube compilations that pop up after he has a strong game. Some outlets even slow things down just to highlight his positioning and how he reads the play—always fun to watch if you’re into that kind of thing.
Notable Statistics Table
| Competition | Appearances | Minutes Played | Pass Completion (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLS (2023-2025) | 10 | 280 | 83 |
Fans love to point out his maturity after games. They often mention how video analysis shows him reading plays and breaking up attacks.
FC Cincinnati’s media team jumps in, too, dropping video clips that double as teaching moments for the younger Academy prospects.
