Fort Lauderdale Strikers Add Trio of Brazilians On Loan

From left to right: Marlon Freitas, Soccer Director/Partner Andre Chaves, Victor “PC” Pagliari Giro, Stefano Pinho at Lockhart Stadium on Thursday, March 17, 2015. Photo credit: Fort Lauderdale Strikers

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers announced Tuesday the signings of three Brazilians players on loan deals, pending international transfer clearances.

Midfielder Marlon Freitas and forward Stefano Pinho join the Strikers on loan for the entirety of the 2015 season from Brazilian side Fluminense, while defender Victor Pagliari Giro, who goes by the nickname “PC,” comes by way of Corinthians.

“These three players caught our eye after scouting in Brazil,” Strikers Soccer Director and Partner Andre Chaves said. “We invited them into preseason where they have adjusted quickly and impressed the coaching staff. We are excited to have them on loan for the year and look forward to their contributions.”

Freitas, 19, is a promising central midfielder. He has been described as a technically-adept player, with solid tackling skills as well as ability to launch attacks. Freitas was captain of the Fluminense Under-20 side that captured the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior.

Stefano, 23, is a left-footed forward from Minas Gerais, Brazil, who is known for his speed and goalscoring ability. He comes to the Strikers following a successful loan spell in Finland where he led MyPa in scoring with 11 goals. Stefano was the leading scorer at the U-20 Rio de Janeiro Cup in 2011.

PC, 21, a left back from São Paulo who can also play on the wing. He has represented Brazil at the youth levels, most recently with the Brazil U-20 national team. PC was captain of Corinthians U-17 and U-20 teams. All three players have featured heavily in Strikers preseason matches. Stefano scored a goal against Florida Gulf Coast University on March 14, while PC tallied an assist in the 2-0 win. Freitas has been a mainstay in midfield

Freitas and PC will wear the traditional Brazilian squad numbers for a volante (defensive midfielder) and left back, occupying roster numbers 5 and 6, respectively. Stefano will wear number 29.