CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (March 12, 2024) — Chattanooga Football Club (CFC) today announced it has completed the signing of former MLS forward Carlos Rivas in a one-year deal, pending federation approval and receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
The Colombian began his career with local club Jamundi FC and made his debut in the top division in Colombia with Once Caldas in 2012. Rivas then had a successful spell for Colombian powerhouse Deportivo Cali during the 2013/14 season before making the jump to Major League Soccer (MLS) with Orlando City FC.
Rivas made 78 appearances and scored eight goals for Orlando from 2015 to 2017. He played alongside the likes of 2007 Ballon d’Or winner Kaka during his time in Florida.
The left-footed forward was traded to New York Red Bulls in early 2018 and made five appearances and scored two goals during his time with RBNY.
The 29-year-old has had several different club homes back in Colombia, along with stops in Israel and Ecuador, and was most recently with Colombian first-division promoted side Patriotas Boyaca.
"Carlos is a player who has experience, and he gives us a different look at the striker position", said Head Coach and Sporting Director Rod Underwood. "He fits into what we are trying to do in our playing style. We are happy to have him in our team.”
Rivas expressed his excitement about joining the club at this exciting new chapter.
“It brings me great joy to arrive at this club,” said Rivas. “I hope to give the fans a lot of joy as well and many great memories.”
Rivas will wear the number 19 jersey.
Chattanooga FC will compete in MLS NEXT Pro for the first time beginning in 2024. Fans can explore all ticketing options at ChattanoogaFC.com.
Player Profile
Name: Carlos Rivas
Position: Forward
Height: 5-8
Birthdate: April 15, 1994
Birthplace: Jamundi, Colombia
Citizenship: Colombia
2024 Chattanooga FC roster (as of March 12, 2024)
Goalkeepers (3): Jean Antoine, Jon Burke, +Michael Barrueta
Defenders (8): Joseph Perez, Anatolie Prepelita, +Jesse Williams, +Milo Garvanian, +Robert Screen, +Duvan Viafara, +Farid Sar-Sar, +Logan Brown
Midfielders (6): Luis Garcia Sosa, Alex McGrath, Ethan Koren, +Andres Jimenez Aranzazu, +Callum Watson, +Jude Arthur
Forwards (6): Taylor Gray, Damian Rodriguez, Jesus Ibarra, +Mehdi Ouamri, +Jalen James, +Carlos Rivas
*Indicates new signing for the 2024 season
