FRESNO, Calif. – Central Valley Fuego FC announced on Thursday it has signed forward Christian Chaney as the club continues to build its roster ahead of its inaugural 2022 USL League One season. The signing is pending league and federation approval.
A dual citizen of both the US and Mexico, Chaney made his professional debut with Armenian Premier League side, FC Ararat Yerevan, and played for Maltese Premier League club Mosta FC. Chaney has experience playing for both Fresno Fuego in USL League Two and reunites with recently announced teammates Renato Bustamante and Diego Casillas as all players were a part of Fresno FC in USL Championship.
“Let’s run it back. I’m home again and more excited than ever! Vamo Fuego! Vamos Familia!” said Chaney.
Chaney most recently played for Los Angeles Force in the National Independent Soccer Association team where he tallied 24 appearances and 13 goals during the 2021 season. The 27-year-old had previously played a season for Charlotte Independence, in the USL League Championship.
Before returning to the states, Chaney spent time with Mosta FC, due to COVID-19 his season was cut short. Prior to his European career he competed for Fresno FC for two seasons.
From 2016-2017, Chaney spent time with Sacramento Republic FC of the USL Championship appearing in nine matches and featuring one start.
He then joined Fuego Fresno of the USL League Two, finishing his season with 14 goals and 12 games. During a game with FC Ararat Yerevan which resulted in an opportunity to play with the Armenian team. There he not only made his international debut as a player but also as a forward.
Prior to Chaney’s professional career, he was a member of Fresno City College’s men’s soccer team and was named the 2013 NSCAA/ Continental Tire Junior College All-American team as a defender for his sophomore season.
By the age of 16, Chaney joined amateur team C.D. De Los Altos in Mexico.
“Christian represents what the Central Valley is about,” said Director Deportivo and Head Coach Jaime Ramirez. “He’s a local talent that groomed his skills at Bullard High School, Fresno City College, Fresno Fuego, turned pro with Ararat SC of Armenia, returned to play with Fresno FC, and now is making his return to Fuego FC. It’s only fitting that Christian return to his hometown to showcase his talents.”