Breaking Down the Crestmont FC Griffons’ 2024 Roster: A Squad Poised for MLS Success

By Shirley Wright, Lead Griffon Beat Writer for Crestmont Sports Report

Shirley Wright,

The Crestmont Sports Report : Crestmont FC’s lead beat reporter

As the Crestmont FC Griffons prepare for their inaugural campaign in Major League Soccer, fans and analysts alike are buzzing about the team’s roster. Head Coach Daria Domingues has implemented a 4-5-1 attacking style of play, designed to maximize possession and create scoring opportunities through a dominant midfield and overlapping full-backs.

This formation focuses on a strong defensive base with four defenders, a packed five-player midfield to control the tempo and space, and a lone striker who is supported by attacking midfielders and wingers. The system emphasizes quick transitions, creative passing, and high pressing to win the ball back swiftly. With this tactical framework, the Griffons aim to balance solid defense with an aggressive attacking mindset.

Let’s take a detailed look at the 2024 roster and what each player brings to the table.

Crestmont FC’s projected lineup for their upcoming inaugural season. The numbers besides the player names are what the projected skillset (numbered 1-100) of each player are for the upcoming season.

Goalkeepers

Javier Viera (#1, Projected Starter, Age 26, Venezuela)
The Griffons’ Venezuelan shot-stopper has quickly established himself as a reliable presence between the posts. Known for his quick reflexes and vocal leadership, Viera’s international experience makes him a cornerstone of the team’s defense.

Mikkel Lassen (#12, Projected Backup, Age 25, Denmark)
Lassen’s move from Denmark’s Superliga brings a strong and steady option off the bench. With sharp instincts and an imposing frame, he’s more than capable of stepping in when needed.

Max Bishop (#23, Prospect, Age 18, United States)
A Crestmont Academy graduate, Bishop is one to watch for the future. With his agile shot-stopping ability and maturity beyond his years, he’s poised to learn from Viera and Lassen this season.

Defenders

Victor Toledo (#5, Projected Starter [LB], Age 26, Argentina)
Toledo’s aggressive tackling and precise crossing make him a force on the left flank. His consistency and defensive awareness will be critical for Crestmont’s success.

Tyler James (#14, Backup LB/RB, Age 24, United States)
A versatile player capable of covering both full-back positions, James is a valuable depth option who brings energy and determination.

Eliott Schneider (#3, Projected Starter [CB], Age 27, France)
Schneider is a towering presence in the backline. His aerial dominance and ability to read the game make him an excellent partner for captain Robert Fisher.

Robert Fisher (#4, Captain, Projected Starter [CB], Age 30, United States)
The heart and soul of the Griffons’ defense, Fisher leads by example with his commanding performances. A proven leader on and off the field, he’s essential to the team’s defensive structure.

Isidoro Pacheco (#6, Backup, Age 18, Colombia)
A promising prospect from Colombia, Pacheco has shown flashes of brilliance with his athleticism and composure under pressure.

Chris Campbell (#2, Backup, Age 26, United States)
Campbell’s experience and work rate make him a reliable backup option across the defensive line.

Wayne Tremblay (#15, Projected Starter [RB], Age 22, United States)
Tremblay’s explosive pace and ability to join the attack from the right-back position add a dynamic element to Crestmont’s play.

Midfielders

Mateo Salcedo (#8, Projected Starter [CM], Age 30, Argentina)
The engine of the midfield, Salcedo’s vision and pinpoint passing will drive the Griffons’ attack. His leadership and composure in tight spaces make him irreplaceable.

Saba Guramishvili (#13, Backup, Age 26, Georgia)
A gritty and hardworking midfielder, Guramishvili’s defensive capabilities provide balance in the middle of the park.

Vaughn Covil (#25, Projected Starter [CAM], Age 20, United States)
Fresh from Hull City FC, Covil’s creativity and flair are expected to shine in the attacking midfield role. His last season in the EFL Championship league highlight his potential to make an impact in MLS.

Manager Daria Domingues with Covil during the announcing of his signing with the club

Cody Davis (#18, Backup, Age 22, United States)
Davis is a young player with a strong engine and the ability to disrupt opposition play.

Brendan Wood (#20, Prospect, Age 16, United States)
At just 16, Wood is already earning attention for his technical skills and tactical awareness. He’s a future star in the making.

Domingo Lopez (#11, Projected Starter [LM], Age 27, Colombia)
Lopez’s pace and creativity on the left wing will be vital for creating scoring opportunities. His ability to track back defensively adds balance to his game.

Eder Cardoso (#19, Backup/Prospect, Age 19, Cape Verde)
Cardoso is a raw talent with incredible speed and potential. He’s expected to grow into a more prominent role in the coming seasons.

Christopher Ward (#10, Projected Starter [RM], Age 24, United States)
Ward’s work rate and precision on the right flank make him a reliable starter. His ability to whip in dangerous crosses will be key for the Griffons’ attack.

Chola Ali (#9, Projected Starter [CAM], Age 26, Ghana)
Ali’s technical brilliance and knack for finding space make him a constant threat in the attacking third. His partnership with Covil will be one to watch.

David Powell (#16, Prospect, Age 18, United States)
Powell’s versatility and composure have already caught the eye of the coaching staff. He’s likely to see minutes as a substitute.

Cameron Burgess (#7, Bench/Trade Block, Age 24, England)
Burgess’ technical ability is undeniable, but he’s currently on the trade block as the team looks to make room for emerging talents.

Forwards

Martin Ádám (#24, Projected Starter [ST], Age 29, Hungary)
The marquee signing from Hungary’s Nemzeti Bajnokság I, Ádám is a proven and clinical finisher who is looking to net the majority of Crestmont FC’s goals this season in the MLS. His experience and poise in front of goal make him the Griffons’ offensive focal point.

Manager Daria Domingues with Ádám during his signing announcement

Christopher Bailey (#22, Backup, Age 21, United States)
Bailey is a promising young striker with an eye for goal. He’s expected to play a key role as a substitute.

Hamadou Diallo (#21, Prospect, Age 17, Cameroon)
Diallo’s raw talent and electrifying pace make him one of the most exciting prospects in the league. The Griffons are committed to developing him for the future.

Final Thoughts

Crestmont FC has assembled a well-rounded roster capable of competing at the highest level. The additions of Martin Ádám and Vaughn Covil bring proven talent to key positions, while young prospects like Max Bishop and Hamadou Diallo offer a glimpse into a bright future. With a strong mix of experience, youth, and international flair, the Griffons are ready to take flight in the upcoming MLS season.