Naples, FL – 02/20/25 – FC Naples has reinforced its squad ahead of the 2025 season with the acquisitions of center-backs Gustavo Fernandes and Rodolfo Sulia. Both players bring high-level experience and defensive prowess, bolstering the club’s backline as they prepare for their Inaugural Home Opener, on March 8th.
Gustavo Fernandes: A League One Veteran
Gustavo Fernandes joins FC Naples following a standout career in USL League One. The seasoned center-back was a key part of North Carolina FC’s championship-winning squad in 2023 and has accumulated over six seasons of professional experience. Fernandes has made 99 league appearances in USL League One, demonstrating his consistency and reliability on the backline. In 2024, he featured for Chattanooga Red Wolves, starting in 20 of his 22 appearances with the team.
“Gustavo has a proven track record of success in USL 1. He offers us great passing from the back and is really able to open the game up with his decision-making with the ball,” stated Head Coach Matt “Gaffa” Poland.
Player Details:
- Name: Gustavo Fernandes
- Pronunciation: guh-STAH-voh fer-NAN-des
- Position: Center Back
- Height: 6’0”
- Date of Birth: February 19th, 1998 (age 26)
- Hometown: West Babylon, New York
- Nationality: United States/Brazil
- Previous Experience: Forward Madison, North Carolina FC, Chattanooga Red Wolves
Transaction: FC Naples signs Gustavo Fernandes for the 2025 season, pending league and federation approval.
Rodolfo Sulia: International Experience
Rodolfo Sulia brings defensive power and international experience to FC Naples. The 23-year-old has earned 18 caps for the Puerto Rico National Team, recently starting in four of their last five matches. His time with the Puerto Rico National Team will be invaluable as FC Naples aims to strengthen its backline presence.
Sulia previously played for Chicago House in 2022 under Coach Matt Poland, where he developed his skills in a competitive environment.
“Rodolfo is a player with high potential. He is strong in his duels and is a presence on the backline. He is a player who wants to compete every day in training and in games,” stated Head Coach Matt “Gaffa” Poland.
Player Details:
- Name: Rodolfo Sulia
- Pronunciation: roh-DOHL-foh SOO-lee-ah
- Position: Center Back
- Height: 6’2”
- Date of Birth: August 8, 2002 (age 22)
- Hometown: Carolina, Puerto Rico
- Nationality: Puerto Rican
- Previous Experience: Chicago House, Puerto Rico National Team
Transaction: FC Naples signs Rodolfo Sulia for the 2025 season, pending league and federation approval
About FC Naples
FC Naples is the first professional soccer team, based at the state-of-the-art Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida. As a United Soccer League expansion team, the team’s mission is to create a world-class family experience and forge a title-contending squad to be the pride of Southwest Florida. FC Naples’ crest, colors, and culture are a reflection of the community’s rich history of strength, and resilience, as well as a deep connection to the beach and waterways that have shaped the community. The team stands proud to represent the vibrant spirit of Naples. Learn more about the team at www.FCNaples.com.
