Philadelphia Union announce loan of Jose Riasco to Uruguay

Heralded Venezuela youth international Jose Riasco hasn’t been in the Philadelphia Union II lineup since June and on Friday the team announced that he has been loaned to Uruguay for the remainder of the 2023 season.

The 19-year-old striker was brought in for a reported $1.7 million fee two years ago but he’s struggled to find his footing in the U.S. playing in the third division MLS Next Pro, recording 4 goals and 2 assists over two seasons.

Riasco has made a pair of appearances off the bench since joining Boston River in the Uruguay top flight, debuting on Aug. 27. He’s also reportedly played on the team’s third division reserve team.

The announcement of Riasco’s departure doesn’t state whether there is a purchase option. It’s also not clear what the length of his contract was when he signed.

Thought to be a potential third striker option when he was signed, Riasco has quietly underwhelmed in his time with Union II but a change of scenery could do a lot for his confidence and give him a chance to get back on track in a different environment.