Phoenix Rising Signs Defender Alejandro Fuenmayor

Phoenix Rising FC has signed defender Alejandro Fuenmayor, pending league and federation approval, the club announced today.

“Alejandro is someone I know well that can bring some continuity to the project,” said Rising Head Coach Juan Guerra. “His style of play matches what we are trying to implement here next season. He is a ball-playing center back. He is aggressive off the ball. Alejandro has a great presence in the locker room as well.”

Fuenmayor, 26, spent the first five seasons of his career with Carabobo FC in the Venezuelan first division. The defender made 75 appearances and scored two goals for his hometown team before joining MLS side Houston Dynamo in 2018. Fuenmayor appeared in 26 matches for Houston in 2018, scoring three goals and helping the Dynamo claim the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

“My expectations for the 2023 season is to win a championship,” said Fuenmayor. “That is the most important thing for this group. We have a great coach, a great team and a great organization. I’ll give it my all to help the team get as far as possible.”

Fuenmayor remained in Houston until 2021, adding 16 appearances to his MLS resume before signing with Oakland ahead of last season. He assisted on three goals in 29 regular-season matches in 2022, leading Roots in interceptions (60) and tackles won (36).

Transaction: Rising signs defender Alejandro Fuenmayor
Name: Alejandro Fuenmayor
Position: Defender
Height: 5-9
Weight: 160
DOB: August 29, 1996 (26)
Birthplace: Maracaibo, Venezuela
Previous club: Oakland Roots
Instagram: @alejandrof294