Atlanta United announced it has signed midfielder Luiz Fernando to an MLS contract. The 22-year-old joins from the club’s USL Championship team, Atlanta United 2.
Fernando is a native of São Paulo, Brazil and was signed by ATL UTD 2 Nov. 19, 2018. In his first year with ATL UTD 2, Fernando appeared in 21 matches with 16 starts and recorded one goal and two assists. The Brazilian was second on the team in chances created.
Prior to joining Atlanta, Fernando spent three seasons with the Richmond Kickers where he made 78 appearances, scored six goals and recorded six assists. He began his career in Corinthians’ youth academy in São Paulo before signing with Richmond.
2019 (Atlanta United 2): In his first season with ATL UTD 2, Fernando started 32 matches, including 26 starts. He scored two goals and added four assists. His 18 shots on goal led the team. Fernando’s first goal for the club came on 4/24 on the road at Tampa Bay. He tallied his second goal in a 3-1 win against Charleston Battery later in the season. His team-best fourth assist of the year came on 9/25 against Indy Eleven.
2018 (Richmond Kickers): Fernando made 28 appearances and 19 starts. He scored three goals and registered four assists.
2017 (Richmond Kickers): Fernando appeared in 28 matches and made 22 starts. He scored twice and recorded one assist.
2016 (Richmond Kickers): Fernando had one goal and one assists in 22 appearances and 10 starts.