AUSTIN, Texas – Austin Bold FC announced on Monday evening it had acquired defender Gustavo Rissi on loan from Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A team Cruzeiro Esporte Clube, pending league and federation approval. 

The 21-year-old began his playing career in the Fluminense FC youth system before joining Cruzeiro in 2014. While with Cruzeiro U20’s, Rissi won a national championship, and the Supercopa do Brasil. In 2018, he was an unused substitute for five matches with the Cruzeiro Esporte Clube senior team. Most recently, Rissi spent the 2018/2019 on loan at Ipatinga Futebol Clube, Boa Esporte Clube, and Cruzeiro B. The Sao Paulo native received seven call-ups for the Brazilian National Team U15 and U16 squads. 

“It is very important for Cruzeiro to have a relationship in the USL since it can be an important path for players in the USA,” said Cruzeiro Esporte Clube General Manager Marcone Barbosa. “Gustavo is a promising young player that can show all his potential during the remaining of this season.”

“Bringing a player like Gustavo Rissi into Austin Bold is great for two reasons,” said Austin Bold FC General Manager Roberto Silva. “It brings a fantastic player into the team for us to develop and adds quality on the field. The loan also begins a formal relationship between our club and Cruzeiro. The Brazilian powerhouse has one of the best youth systems in South America and often produces more high-quality players than they can use. Being a landing spot for young South American talent in the US is beneficial in growing The Bold.”