HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Monday it had acquired midfielder Samuel Careaga on loan from Argentine club Atlético Lanús for the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Careaga comes to Hartford after a productive stint with Memphis 901 FC, having joined the club on loan in September 2023 from Lanús. The 22-year-old was a central part of 901 FC’s high-powered attack in 2024, contributing eight goals to the side’s third-place finish in the USL Championship’s Western Conference.

Overall with Memphis, Careaga recorded 10 goals, three assists and 25 chances created in 39 appearances across the regular season and playoffs while also logging 17 interceptions and 116 recoveries and winning 19 tackles at a 63.3 percent success rate.

“Samuel is an electrifying young player who adds energy to our midfield and creativity in the attacking third,” said Hartford Head Coach and General Manager Brendan Burke. “His knack for scoring and creating chances will be a tremendous asset, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the squad.”

A native of Avellaneda, Argentina, Careaga made his professional debut in Argentina’s top flight at just 19 years old, signing with Lanús in July of 2022. Careaga saw action in 20 matches across all competitions, including the Copa Sudamericana, and logged one assist before his 18-month loan spell with Memphis.