Tyler Ruthven and Stefano Pinho have signed up with Nesta’s team
The Miami FC is ready for his second year in the NASL. Two key players were signed up with the club to consolidate the team. One player, Tyler Ruthven, will fortify the backline with his brick-wall defending style. The other one, 2015 NASL Golden Ball winner, Stefano Pinho, will consolidate the team as a strong forward who has the ability to put the ball in the back of the net more often than not.
Tyler Ruthven
Ruthven, an Alpharetta, Georgia native, brings over six years of pro experience in the U.S. and abroad to the club’s defense. In 2012, the center back joined the MLS-side New York Redbulls, where he made five appearances while starting in three. During his three starts on the backline, the defender helped New York earn three consecutive clean sheets.
Europe
Soon after, Ruthven took his talents to Europe playing with IK Brage of Sweden and KuPS of Finland. While with KuPS, the defender helped the team reach the Suomen Cup final, Finland’s top cup competition. After his time in the old continent, Ruthven joined Arizona United SC, for a season before returning to the NASL with the Armada.
Stefano Pinho
Former NASL Golden Ball Winner and Minnesota United FC forward Stefano Pinho has signed with The Miami FC. Pinho, a São João Nepomuceno, Brazil native, brings additional fire power to an already potent forward line. The amazing attacker spent 10 years with Brazil’s Fluminense, rising through the club’s youth, while being loaned out to other Brazilian clubs.
The powerful striker entered the NASL in 2015, being loaned out to the Fort Lauderdale Strikers by Fluminense. Pinho played in 23 matches that season scoring 15 goals for the Strikers, leading the club to the NASL Championship semifinals.
Ruthven:
“I couldn’t be more excited to join Miami FC and compete for a title,” “I know expectations are high and I’m thankful that the club brought me in to be a part of it.”
NESTA:
“Building a strong defense is one of the most important things to me,” said Miami FC Head Coach Alessandro Nesta. “Tyler has the experience and skills I’m looking for in a defender.”