Phoenix Rising FC signed defender Edgardo Rito on December 20, 2023.
“One of the many reasons I wanted to join Rising was my familiarity with [Rising head coach] Juan Guerra,” said Rito. “Secondly, it is a good club. Players speak very highly of Phoenix within the league. This is the right time for me to come to this club. It will help me to keep growing and advancing. I expect to take full advantage of this opportunity.”
Rito, who turns 28 in February, began his career as a 17-year-old with Venezuelan first division side Atlético El Vigía in 2013. The wingback made 39 appearances in his first three seasons in the Primera División Venezolana, scoring one goal. Rito transferred to Patriotas Boyaca for the 2017 season, playing 21 matches for the Colombian side before returning to Venezuela to play 17 games for Metropolitanos in 2018.
Rito came to the U.S. for the first time in 2019-20, playing 34 matches and scoring twice for Red Bull New York II in the USL Championship. He returned to Colombia for the 2021 season, scoring three times in his second stint with Patriotas Boyaca (32 appearances) before joining Rising Head Coach Juan Guerra in Oakland for the 2022 season.
“Rito’s mentality, athleticism, technical ability and understanding of our style of play, make him a massive addition to our roster,” said Guerra. “His ability to go forward and create chances makes him a top player at any level. I am very happy to reunite with him. I am looking forward to seeing him adapts to his new teammates next month.”
Rito made 33 appearances for Roots in 2022, scoring five goals and seven assists to earn a First Team All-USL selection at right back. He played in 29 matches with Oakland and Hartford Athletic in 2023, recording two goals and four assists.
“I would classify myself as a team player,” added Rito. “I’m not one who gets distracted easily. I focus on the end goal. I am best known for my speed. My role is to create chances that result in goals. Every year I gain more confidence in myself and in this upcoming year I hope to have a similar season to what I was able to accomplish in 2022 and finish the year as champions.”
Name: Edgardo Rito
Position: Defender
DOB: February 17, 1996 (27)
Born: El Vigía, Venezuela
Height: 5-5
Weight: 140
