MIAMI – Miami FC announced on Monday the club had signed attacking midfielder Rodrigo Da Costa for the 2026 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Da Costa joins Miami following a two-season stint with North Carolina FC where he recorded nine goals and six assists across 56 appearances in the USL Championship regular season and playoffs. The return to South Florida marks a full-circle moment for the native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, who competed collegiately and in the amateur ranks in Miami before breaking into the professional ranks.

“Signing with Miami FC means a lot to me,” said Da Costa. “Being able to play in a city where my wife’s family is from, in front of family and friends, is going to be really special. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and am excited for what’s ahead.”

The 32-year-old competed at Florida National University in the NAIA collegiately, and was twice voted to the All-America First Team and one more to the All-America Second Team. He then moved into the professional ranks in 2019 with FC Tulsa, where he recorded 36 goals and 25 assists in 126 appearances for the club, both of which stand as the Scissortails’ all-time high in USL Championship play, while earning All-League Second Team honors in his first pro campaign.

Da Costa moved on to Memphis 901 FC in 2023 and recorded 12 goals and three assists in 25 appearances before heading to North Carolina FC, where he helped the side reach the USL Championship Playoffs in consecutive campaigns.