December 21, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Phoenix Rising FC News Release
Phoenix Rising FC has signed midfielder Federico “Fede” Varela, pending league and federation approval, the club announced today.
“Fede is precisely the player we need to ignite this roster,” said Rising Head Coach Juan Guerra. “He has the vision that will make our game model succeed. He will help us to get between lines and break down opposing teams. His link-up play is excellent. His technical ability is top class. I cannot wait to see the excitement he brings to our team and this league.”
Varela was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before moving to Spain and beginning his youth career at Viveiro CF and Celta de Vigo. He began his pro career at the age of 18 with Porto B in the Portuguese second division. There, Varela scored 16 goals and had seven assists in 54 appearances before earning a 12-game loan spell with first division side, Portimonense.
“I am very excited to go to Phoenix and live each day out there with everyone,” said Varela. “I am certain this will be a great year for everyone. I will fight from the first minute to put Phoenix at the top of the standings.
When I spoke with Juan, he told me my potential is something that could help Rising win a championship. He gave me 100% confidence and I haven’t even met him in person yet. I can only imagine what kind of person he is. I liked what he told me. I have no doubt about going to Phoenix.”
Varela was loaned to Spanish second division sides Rayo Majadahonda and Las Palmas in 2019-20. He scored four goals and had six assists in 58 appearances before signing with Denizlispor for seven games in the Turkish first division in 2021. Varela spent the 2022 season with CSKA Sofia in the Bulgarian first division, where he racked up seven assists in 30 matches.
Transaction: Rising signs Federico Varela
Name: Federico Varela
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-9
Weight: 155
DOB: May 7, 1996
Birthplace: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Previous club: CSKA Sofia
Pronunciation: Feh-deh REE-koh Vah-REH-la
Instagram: @Fedevarela10
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