Forward Madison FC has signed 22-year-old midfielder Christian Enriquez, adding a box-to-box presence to the Flamingos’ roster. Enriquez, who becomes the 21st player on FMFC’s squad, has previous experience with Portland Timbers II and 1904 FC in San Diego.
“Everyone’s treated me well since I’ve been here, it’s made me feel comfortable,” Enriquez said. “If you had to put it into one word, it’s positive. I’m excited to get going.”
Enriquez adds a unique piece to the Flamingos’ midfield thanks to his ability to work as a two-way player. According to head coach Carl Craig, Enriquez impressed while on trial over the past two weeks.
“I said to [assistant coach] Neil Hlavaty after one or two days into his trial, we need to sign this kid,” Craig said. “Christian showed straight away what he had. He’s quick, he’s very good one-on-one and he can fire a shot with power and pace. He’ll be a really, really good fit with the group.”
Enriquez is originally from San Diego, and has spent time with the U-19 U.S. Men’s National Team. He played two seasons at Cal Poly State University, where he was named Big West Conference Freshman of the Year in 2016. Enriquez went on to sign for Portland Timbers II in the USL Championship in 2018, and later played for 1904 FC in San Diego.
Most recently, Enriquez has been training with San Diego Loyal of the USL Championship, where he has been since the start of preseason in March. In Madison, though, Enriquez said he’s looking forward to finding a home away from home.
“I was excited to see how much the community supports the team,” Enriquez said. “It’s more than just filling up the stands, it’s being around the city and seeing people wearing a jersey. It gives you extra motivation to know that you’re playing for more than just the club, you’re playing for the city.”
Forward Madison FC is back at Breese Stevens Field this Saturday, June 19, to take on New England Revolution II at 7 p.m.
