PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC announced on Monday its initial roster moves ahead of the 2026 USL Championship Season, with 13 players currently set to return to the club for the new campaign.

Rising exercised contract options for goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky, midfielder Hope Avayevu and forward Charlie Dennis, with the club’s previously announced contract extensions for defender Collin Smith and midfielder JP Scearce set to begin with the 2026 season.

Defender Rafael Czichos, midfielders Jean-Éric Moursou and Jamison Ping and forwards Kelvin Arase, Darius Johnson, Damián Rivera and Ihsan Sacko are also under contract for the 2026 campaign, while the club has extended its loan agreement with CD Chivas Guadalajara for Daniel Flores through the end of the 2026 USL Championship season.

The moves ensure three of the club’s top four regular-season goalscorers return in Second Team All-League midfielder Avayevu (7G), Dennis (7G) and Sacko (7G).

“With the returning players we have a core group who understand and are committed to driving the standard and culture of this club,” Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “Seeing how the season ended, the players, technical staff, front office and fans are looking forward to the upcoming season to reach our objectives set out from the club, players and staff.”

Rising also announced it had declined contract options for Triston Henry, Harvey Neville, Mohamed Traore, Noble Okello, Xian Emmers and Dariusz Formella, while defender Ascel Essengue (LA Galaxy) and midfielder Carl Sainté (FC Dallas) will return to their parent clubs following the conclusion of their loan agreements.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to every player who contributed to our club in 2025, and to recognize Emil Cuello, Dariusz Formella and Mohamed Traore – each of whom played meaningful roles in bringing Rising its first championship in 2023 and consistently embodied what it means to represent this club,” said Rising Sporting Director Brandon McCarthy. “Their professionalism, character and commitment will remain an important part of our history, and we’re grateful for the impact they made during their time in Rising red.”

Additionally, the club announced it remained in contract negotiations with 2025 captain, Papé Mar Boye, and will provide further details on the 2026 season as information becomes available.