SV Werder Bremen has officially announced the acquisition of highly-rated American center-back Ramiz HamoudaPlayer·Ramiz Hamouda from USL Championship club Birmingham Legion FC. The 18-year-old defender joins the BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga side on a long-term contract, committing his future to the German club until June 30, 2031. This move, finalized in late May 2026, marks a significant step in Hamouda's burgeoning career.
Hamouda, who celebrated his 18th birthday on May 26, 2026, was unable to complete the transfer earlier due to FIFA regulations concerning the international movement of minors. His development has been closely monitored by Werder Bremen, as confirmed by Sporting Director Clemens FritzCoach·Clemens Fritz.
"We've been monitoring Ramiz's development for some time now," stated Clemens Fritz. "Ramiz is an exciting player whom we primarily see as a center-back. However, he can also play on the left side of a back four. He's currently slated for the U23 team, where he'll first settle in after his move from the USA."
For Birmingham Legion FC, Hamouda's departure represents the culmination of a successful youth development pathway. He debuted for the club at just 15 years old, becoming the youngest player in Legion FC's history to appear in the USL Championship. Across his tenure, he made 36 appearances for the club. His talent also earned him international recognition, representing the United StatesTeam·United States at the U17 World CupCompetition·U17 World Cup in Qatar in 2025 and receiving a call-up to the U.S. Under-18 Men's National Team in March 2026. Birmingham Legion FC's Head Coach and CEO Jay HeapsCoach·Jay Heaps had anticipated the move since January 2026, highlighting the club's role in fostering national team-caliber talent.
Werder Bremen concluded the 2025/26 BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga season in 15th place, securing 32 points from 8 wins, 8 draws, and 18 losses. The team scored 37 goals, with Jens StagePlayer·Jens Stage leading the club with 10 league goals and, alongside Romano SchmidPlayer·Romano Schmid, contributing the most to the team's offensive output. Hamouda's arrival is an investment in the club's future defensive stability, with the expectation that he will progress through their youth ranks before challenging for a first-team spot.
Birmingham Legion FC, meanwhile, finished 12th in the Eastern Conference of the 2025 USL Championship season, missing the playoffs. As of late May 2026, their current form in the 2026 USL Championship sees them in 10th place with 2 wins, 4 draws, and 3 losses from 9 matches. The club will now look to address the void left by Hamouda's versatility in their defensive lineup as they continue their campaign.
This transfer underscores a growing trend of young American players making the transition to top European leagues, seeking to further their development and compete at the highest levels of international football.
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