CHICAGO, Ill. (Jan. 25, 2013) – The Chicago Fire Soccer Club announced Friday that the club has loaned midfielder Alvaro “Flaco” Fernandez to Qatari side Al Rayyan. The 27-year-old Uruguayan World Cup veteran will join Al Rayyan on a six-month loan. Per club and MLS policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.



“Flaco was interested in exploring options abroad in search of national team playing time and this situation allows him that opportunity,” said Fire President of Soccer Operations Javier Leon. “We wish Flaco the best in Qatar and with Al Rayyan.”



Fernandez joined the Fire on July 27, 2012 from the Seattle Sounders FC. A member of the Uruguayan side that placed fourth in the 2010 World Cup, Fernandez scored two goals and added one assist for the Men in Red in 13 regular season appearances during his time in Chicago.



Name: Alvaro Fernandez

Pronunciation: AHL-bah-ro

Position: Midfielder

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 159 lbs.

Date of Birth: October 11, 1985

Place of Birth: Soriano, Uruguay

Hometown: Soriano, Uruguay

Citizenship: Uruguay

Departed: Loaned to Al Rayyan on Jan. 25, 2013