A highly anticipated press conference took place via zoom with Hartford Athletic CEO Nick Sakiewicz and other members of the Athletic staff and media on Tuesday afternoon. Highly regarded Brazilian Goalkeeper Renan Ribeiro was announced as the first major signing in lead up to the 2024 USL Championship season.
Ribeiro boasts an impressive pedigree where he played in Portugal for Sporting Lisbon and in Brazil for Atletico Mineiro amongst other clubs. The 33 year old keeper comes to Hartford to try and lift spirits and win totals for the 2024 season. When asked why Ribeiro was signed before a coach has been named Sakiewicz stated that an opportunity like this couldn't wait with Ribeiro having offers on the table from other clubs around the world including Saudi Arabia.
Ribeiro attended a match at Trinity Health Stadium in October and said coming to Hartford and playing in the USL Championship was something he wanted to get behind. He mentioned that he sees the ambition of the club and is excited to see the next chapter for the Athletic. When asked if he had an opportunity to connect with the local New England Brazilian community in October, Ribeiro said he had not but was looking forward to meeting all of the Supporters prior to the season.
In a surprise comment from Sakiewicz he announced that Hartford is building a training facility near the team offices. This will certainly help attract talent to Hartford who is coming off their worst season in club history. Sakiewicz suggested this was just the first of many exciting announcements in and around the club before preseason starts in February.
Comments