FC Cincinnati have loaned Álvaro Barreal to Brazilian Série A club Cruzeiro Esporte Clube through December 2024, the clubs announced today. As a part of the deal, Cruzeiro will have a purchase option on Barreal for an undisclosed fee. FC Cincinnati also retain the right to terminate the loan deal, if certain conditions are met.
Barreal, 23, is coming off of a breakout season with FC Cincinnati. The dynamic playmaker scored eight goals and added 16 assists in 46 appearances for FC Cincinnati last season, earning an MLS All-Star selection in June.
In September 2023, Barreal was named a finalist for the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award, the honor given to the best goal scored worldwide that year, for his sensational volley from over 20 yards out in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.
Since joining the club in 2020, Barreal has made 121 appearances in Orange and Blue, notching 19 goals and 29 assists over four seasons. The Buenos Aires, Argentina native began his FC Cincinnati career as a forward, but moved around several different positions before blossoming as a left wingback in Head Coach Pat Noonan’s squad.
TRANSACTION: On March 1, 2024, FC Cincinnati loan Álvaro Barreal to Brazilian Série A club Cruzeiro Esporte Clube through December 2024. As a part of the deal, Cruzeiro will have a purchase option on Barreal for an undisclosed fee. FC Cincinnati also retain the right to terminate the loan deal, if certain conditions are met.
