Colorado Rapids midfielder Carlos Alvarez has been loaned to Charlotte Independence of the United Soccer League (USL). The agreement covers the duration of the MLS and USL seasons but the Rapids have the option to recall Alvarez from their USL affiliate club at any time.

“We are excited to get Carlos integrated into the Charlotte setup as soon as possible," said Brian Crookham, Rapids Senior Director of Soccer Development. “With his return to health we feel that gaining meaningful minutes in USL will allow him to build on the productive preseason he had.”

The Los Angeles, Calif., native was acquired from Chivas USA in July 2014 in exchange for Nathan Sturgis. Alvarez has battled some injuries early in the season and has only seen action in one match for the Rapids. Last season, the attacking midfielder made 10 appearances for the club, including six starts, with one assist. Before that, Alvarez made a total of 40 appearances in his first two professional seasons with Chivas USA.

While at the University of Connecticut, Alvarez started 21 games in his final season with the Huskies, recording seven goals and nine assists. The 5’10” attacker was named Big East Conference Midfielder of the Year while earning All-Big East First Team honors. Alvarez, a M.A.C Hermann Trophy semifinalist in 2012, was called up to the U-20 U.S. National Team in 2008 as well as Mexico’s U-20 National Team in 2009.

“For Carlos, this move is about getting quality minutes on the pitch and gaining full match sharpness,” added Paul Bravo, VP of Soccer Operations and Technical Director. “We are looking for him to work his way back to the group in Colorado and make a contribution here.”

Charlotte Independence (1-2-2, 5 points) returns to action tonight after earning their first victory in franchise history last weekend against Louisville City FC. Now, the club gets set to host Richmond Kickers at Eagle Field at 5:30 p.m. MT.

TRANSACTION: Colorado Rapids loan midfielder Carlos Alvarez to Charlotte Independence of USL.