PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC announced on Thursday it had signed defender Rafael Czichos through the 2026 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Czichos arrives in Phoenix following three seasons with Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer. A club captain in both 2022 and 2023, Czichos recorded 86 appearances and 80 starts for the Fire, making eight goal contributions (6G, 2A) between 2022-2024.

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Czichos. “I think it’s a great opportunity for me to be part of a club again. To be part of such an ambitious club was very important to me. It has been a good start and I'm excited for what's next.”

Born in Djidda, Saudi Arabia, the 35-year-old began his professional career with German club TSV Ottersberg in 2008 and went on to play 14 seasons of professional soccer in Germany before joining Chicago. Notably, he made 111 appearances in all competitions for 1. FC Köln, starting in 74 Bundesliga matches.

“[Czichos'] experience, game understanding and knowledge will be very helpful to the players that we have,” said Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “Adding a veteran presence is always welcome in a young group, to guide them both on and off the field.”