On Friday, Huntsville City FC announced the signing of forward Maximus Ekk and defender Julian Gaines to contracts for the 2026 season, as well as bringing back midfielder Moises Véliz on loan from Tauro FC.
Maximus Ekk
Maximus Ekk, 20, has played with Huntsville in each of the last three seasons. The forward tore his ACL after starting six of the first seven matches of the 2024 season, and missed nearly a full year. After signing with Nashville SC in 2025 (via an automatic trigger in his contract), he made five appearances (one start) for Huntsville in 2025, scoring four times.
He's a clinical finisher with a high motor and smart movement inside the box. He should be one of the better goal-scorers in MLS NEXT Pro, and has the potential to make an impact with Nashville SC this season.
Julian Gaines
Julian Gaines, 23, has seen his career derailed by injuries over the last two seasons. Viewed as a potential starter for Nashville SC last year and an important part of BJ Callaghan's plans, the right back missed 32 matches with injuries in 2025 and 21 in 2024.
If he can stay fit in 2026, he'll be a lock to start on the right side of Huntsville's defense, and like Ekk could work his way back into the first-team picture with Nashville if fit. Don't be surprised to see him given a few short-term call-ups to the first team.
Moises Véliz
Moises Véliz, 21, is a highly rated midfielder who returns from a second season on loan with Tauro FC in his home country of Panama. On the fringes of the senior national team, Véliz was one a shortlist of Huntsville players called into Nashville's preseason camp, and is viewed as a player with first-team potential.
Véliz scored one goal and added two assists in 21 appearances (11 starts), primarily in midfield while also providing cover at right back. He should be one of the top midfielders in MLS NEXT Pro.
