Ghanaian midfielder Hope Avayevu signs with Phoenix Rising FC

   Hope Kodzo Avayevu, a talented 22-year-old attacking midfielder, has officially joined Phoenix Rising FC, the 2023 United Soccer League (USL) Championship winners. The club announced his signing, which is contingent upon league and federation approval as well as the issuance of his P-1 Visa. Avayevu, widely recognized for his exceptional vision and playmaking skills, is expected to enhance Phoenix Rising’s midfield with his creativity, technical ability, and offensive versatility.

Avayevu joins the Rising after impressing in the USL leagues with Ventura County FC and North Texas SC, where he earned a reputation as a dynamic and impactful player. His ability to read the game, exploit defensive weaknesses, and contribute both in scoring and creating assists has made him a valuable asset. Phoenix Rising’s Head Coach, Pa-Modou Kah, who previously worked with Avayevu, expressed great confidence in the young midfielder’s potential to make an immediate impact on the team. Kah described Avayevu as a “talented player” and a “creative force” who will excite the fans with his goals and assists. The coach further emphasized his excitement about working with Avayevu again and helping him realize his full potential, which will ultimately contribute to the club’s success.

Avayevu began his professional career with North Texas SC in 2021, after catching the attention of scouts through an international talent program. Over the course of three seasons, he appeared in 68 matches, scoring 11 goals and recording 19 assists. His impressive statistics and standout performances made him one of the most exciting young players in the league. During his time at North Texas SC, Avayevu’s ability to create opportunities, find space, and exploit gaps in opposition defenses solidified his reputation as one of the top emerging talents in the USL.

In 2024, Avayevu further demonstrated his skills at Ventura County FC, continuing to build on his growing reputation as a creative and influential player in the midfield. His performances at Ventura County FC made it clear that he was ready for a higher level of competition, and his move to Phoenix Rising is seen as a crucial step forward in his career. The Rising, coming off a successful 2023 season as USL Championship winners, is looking to continue building a competitive roster for the upcoming 2025 season, and Avayevu’s signing is a key part of that strategy.

“I’m honored to join Phoenix Rising and embrace the opportunity to compete with a club that has such ambitious goals,” Avayevu said in a statement. “Having worked with Coach Pa in Dallas, I know his high expectations and how he motivates players to excel. This is the ideal environment for me to grow and contribute, and I’m excited to bring my creativity and passion to the field. I look forward to making our fans proud as we work toward achieving great things together.” Avayevu’s enthusiasm for the move is clear, and his familiarity with Coach Kah’s coaching style will undoubtedly help him settle in quickly and integrate into the team.

Standing at 5 feet 6 inches and weighing 140 pounds, Avayevu may not possess the towering physique of some of his peers, but his football intelligence and technical abilities make him a formidable presence on the field. His quickness, agility, and vision allow him to navigate tight spaces and unlock defenses in ways that few can match. Avayevu’s signing also highlights Phoenix Rising’s commitment to securing young, high-potential talent as the club looks to build on its championship success and continue competing at a high level in the USL.

Avayevu’s rise serves as another example of Ghana’s growing reputation as a producer of football talent that excels on the international stage. His transition to Phoenix Rising is an exciting step in his career, and it will surely be followed closely by fans in both the US and Ghana. With his creativity, determination, and drive, Avayevu is poised to make a significant impact at Phoenix Rising and in the USL, and Ghanaian fans will undoubtedly continue to support and cheer him on as he takes on this next challenge in his career.