PHOENIX (July 15, 2019) — Phoenix Rising Football Club announced today it has signed defender Corey Whelan pending ITC and league approval. Whelan joins Rising from the Liverpool system where he served as the U-23 captain.

“I’m really happy to get the deal over the line and can’t wait to get started. I’m excited to get there now and meet the lads, staff, supporters and the people of Phoenix. I’m looking forward to a new challenge and new chapter” said Whelan.

Whelan, a Republic of Ireland U-21 international, spent time on loan last season with Sky Bet League Two club Crewe Alexandra. He made 16 appearances in route to logging 1,369 minutes played. Whelan recorded one goal and one assist.

“We are excited to add a young player of Corey’s quality as we move into the second half of the season,” said General Manager Bobby Dulle. “At just 21 years old, Corey possesses the qualities we look for in our players. His experiences with Liverpool and ability to play multiple positions will help strengthen our already talented group of players.”

With the addition of Whelan, Phoenix Rising’s roster now stands at 22 players for the 2019 season.



About Phoenix Rising FC

Phoenix Rising FC is the highest-level professional soccer franchise in Arizona’s history and the defending 2018 USL Western Conference Champion. The club is owned by legendary Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker, Didier Drogba, Advantage Sports Union CEO, Alex Zheng, Phoenix Rising club governor Berke Bakay, and an impressive collection of business leaders and international celebrities. Established in 2016, Phoenix Rising FC is applying for Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion and currently plays in the USL Championship, the largest Division 2 professional league in the world. Phoenix Rising FC also owns FC Tucson, a professional USL League One club based in Tucson, Ariz. For season tickets or more information call 623-594-9606 or visit PHXRisingFC.com. You can also follow the team on Facebook (PHXRisingFC), Twitter (@PHXRisingFC), Instagram (@PHXRisingFC), Snapchat (PHXRisingFC) and YouTube (PhoenixRisingFootballClub).