Who Is FC Dallas Goalie, Maarten Paes?

In the dynamic world of soccer, one name has been making waves with his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication – Maarten Paes. Born on the 14th of May, 1998, in Nijmegen, Netherlands, this 25-year-old talent has carved his path as a goalkeeper extraordinaire, becoming an integral part of the Major League Soccer powerhouse, FC Dallas.

Standing tall at an impressive 1.91 meters (6 feet 3 inches), Maarten Paes commands his territory on the field as a formidable goalkeeper. His journey to the forefront of soccer excellence has been a remarkable one, and his story is as inspiring as his gameplay.

Paes’ journey began within the ranks of VV Union, where his passion for the sport ignited. His youth career took a significant turn when he joined NEC in 2012, marking the beginning of his ascent through the soccer ranks. Despite not making any senior appearances during his time at NEC from 2016 to 2018, Paes’ dedication and determination laid the foundation for his future achievements.

The defining moment of his career came in the 2017-18 season when Maarten Paes donned the role of a backup goalkeeper to Joris Delle at NEC. This experience served as a stepping stone towards his ultimate goals, shaping his skills and preparing him for the challenges that lay ahead.

On the 4th of April, 2018, Maarten Paes inked a significant chapter in his journey, signing a three-year contract with Utrecht. With an option for a fourth year, this move marked a turning point, catapulting Paes into the spotlight. His Eredivisie debut for Utrecht on the 19th of August, 2018, against PEC Zwolle, was a testament to his growth and tenacity.

The year 2022 marked another milestone in Paes’ career. A move across the Atlantic saw him join the ranks of MLS side FC Dallas on a six-month loan, starting on the 20th of January. A mere five months later, on the 24th of June, FC Dallas exercised the option to make his transfer permanent, underlining his significance to the team.

While his club achievements are impressive, Maarten Paes has also showcased his prowess on the international stage. A member of the Netherlands U19 squads for the 2016 UEFA European Under-19 Championship and the 2017 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, Paes’ commitment to his craft shone through, even if he didn’t appear in any games. Serving as a backup to Yanick van Osch and Justin Bijlow, Paes’ presence was felt as an essential component of the squad.

As Maarten Paes continues to guard the goalposts of FC Dallas with unwavering determination, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and fans alike. Beyond the field, he embodies the spirit of a rising star, pushing boundaries, and redefining what it means to be a goalkeeper. With his promising future and undeniable talent, the world of soccer eagerly anticipates the chapters that Maarten Paes will add to his remarkable story.