HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Monday the club had signed forward Jonathan Jimenez Vargas ahead of the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

The Norwalk, Conn. native is Hartford’s first new signing to the 2025 roster, joining the club after competing for the past three seasons with New York City FC II in MLS NEXT Pro. The 23-year-old recorded 23 goals and 11 assists across 71 appearances for the side, logging 5,985 minutes of action since joining New York City FC as a Homegrown signing prior to the 2022 season.

This past season, Jimenez Vargas was a critical piece in NYCFC II’s improbable U.S. Open Cup run, showcasing his capability against USL Championship talent. He recorded a pair of assists in the team’s 3-2 victory over Hartford Athletic at Trinity Health Stadium on April 17th, and he scored the game-winning goal in their 1-0 upset over eventual USL Championship Cup Final winners Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the Round of 32, ending the tournament with four goals and two assists.

“I’m proud to join Hartford Athletic and represent my home state at the next level,” said Jimenez. “The direction this club is headed and the energy around it are inspiring. I’m ready to give everything I have to help Hartford succeed in 2025 and can’t wait to play in front of the best fanbase in the USL.”

“We’re thrilled to bring Jonathan to Hartford,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach and General Manager Brendan Burke. “He’s a versatile attacking player with a proven ability to make an impact in the final third. Jonathan’s work ethic and experience at the professional level make him a great fit for our club, and we’re excited to see him contribute in 2025.”

Jimenez Vargas played collegiately at the University of North Carolina for three years, making 49 appearances and adding four goals and four assists. While in Chapel Hill, he helped lead the Tar Heels to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Born in Jiquilpan, Mexico, Jimenez Vargas was raised in Norwalk, Connecticut, and began playing for NYCFC’s youth academy in 2017. The forward helped NYCFC to consecutive U.S. Development Championships in 2018 and 2019 and was voted to the Eastern Conference Best XI.