Phoenix Rising FC acquired forward Dariusz Formella from Oakland and transferred defender Baboucarr Njie to Roots FC on July 25, 2023.
“This acquisition gives us depth at the forward position and allows us to adapt according to game plans,” said Rising Head Coach Juan Guerra. “We’ll miss Baboucarr on and off the field. He is an exceptional teammate. We wish him the best of luck in the future.”
Formella has scored six goals in 19 matches for Oakland this season. The 27-year-old has 27 goals in 105 USL Championship appearances since joining Sacramento Republic in 2019.
“Dariusz is a great player,” said Guerra. “He is someone who will make an immediate impact for us.”
Formella began his career in 2012 with Arka Gdynia in the Polish second division and was signed one year later by Lech Pozan of the Polish first division. He made 98 appearances for Lech Pozan across all competitions before spending time with both Rakow Czestochowa and Pogon Szczecin during his 2017-18 season.
Signed on December 14, 2021, Njie made 44 appearances for Rising across all competitions, scoring two goals and one assist.
Name: Dariusz Formella
Pronunciation: Dar-Ush
Nickname: “Darek”
Position: Forward
DOB: October 21, 1995 (27)
Born: Gdynia, Poland
Height: 5′ 10″
Weight: 163 lbs
