In the heart of the Arizona desert, where triple-digit heat scorches the earth, Phoenix Rising FC has grown into a fiery force in the USL Championship. This club, built with bold ambition and relentless energy, now stands tall among the league’s elite. While MLS expansion continues to dominate the headlines, Phoenix has made its case by doing the work—on and off the pitch.
Let’s explore how Phoenix Rising FC became one of the most respected and entertaining teams in U.S. soccer.
A Humble Beginning with Big Dreams
Phoenix Rising wasn’t always the flashy, fast-paced club fans know today. Founded in 2014 as Arizona United SC, the team initially struggled. Attendance lagged, results were mixed, and the club lacked a strong identity.
However, everything changed in 2017 with a rebrand and relocation. Arizona United became Phoenix Rising FC. They moved to a new soccer-specific stadium in Scottsdale. Just as importantly, new investors joined the project—bringing with them bold ideas and serious funding.
Among them? Global soccer names like Didier Drogba.
Yes, that Drogba.
When Drogba Landed in Arizona
In 2017, the soccer world raised its eyebrows as Didier Drogba, Chelsea legend and Ivorian international, signed with Phoenix Rising—not just as a player, but also as a co-owner.
He wasn’t there to collect a paycheck. Drogba brought professionalism, drive, and belief. He helped the team reach new competitive heights. That same year, Phoenix made the USL playoffs for the first time.
His presence gave the club global attention and inspired a new generation of players and fans alike.
Building a Winning Identity
From that point on, Phoenix Rising focused on building an identity rooted in attacking soccer, high pressing, and intense fitness.
Their style became signature: fast transitions, relentless energy, and goals—lots of goals. At one point, Phoenix set a league record with a 20-game unbeaten streak in 2019.
They played to win, not just to compete. And fans loved every second.
But even more important than their tactics was the culture. The team embraced the grind. Coaches demanded accountability. The club treated players like professionals. No shortcuts. No excuses.
One of the Loudest Stadiums in the League
Phoenix Rising FC doesn’t just show up on the pitch—they bring the noise off it, too. The team’s stadium, located in the Wild Horse Pass area, gets loud, hot, and electric on matchday.
The supporters’ section, led by groups like Los Bandidos and Red Fury, creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the USL. Flares, drums, chants, and flags turn the desert into a soccer cauldron.
Even visiting teams admit it’s tough to play in Phoenix. The heat alone is brutal. Add in the fans and the fast turf, and you have a true home-field advantage.
Not Just Flash—Consistency, Too
Phoenix Rising isn’t a one-season wonder. Since their rebrand, they’ve made the playoffs nearly every year. In 2018 and 2020, they reached the USL Championship Final. Though they fell short of the title both times, their presence at the top never wavered.
In 2023, they finally achieved their goal: USL champions.
With a thrilling extra-time win in the final, Phoenix proved they could not only play attractive soccer but also win when it mattered most. The title gave the club—and its fans—validation after years of close calls.
Talent Pipeline and Player Development
While Phoenix has had big-name moments, the club also focuses on developing younger talent. Players like Solomon Asante, Kevon Lambert, and Santi Moar have used Phoenix as a springboard to bigger opportunities.
Coaches encourage expressive play. Fitness coaches push players to another level. And the scouting department continues to unearth talent from all over the globe—especially Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Phoenix doesn't chase superstars. They create them.
A Look at the 2025 Squad
Heading into the 2025 season, Phoenix boasts a deep, balanced roster. The attack still packs a punch, with pace on the wings and creativity in the middle.
The midfield blends youth and experience. Defensively, the team looks more organized than ever—something past squads sometimes lacked.
Most exciting, though, are the new signings from overseas. Phoenix has continued its strategy of finding undervalued gems from secondary European leagues. If they gel quickly, this team could repeat as champions.
MLS Expansion? Not So Fast
For years, Phoenix was mentioned in MLS expansion talks. They had the market, the fanbase, the stadium plans, and the ambition.
Yet, expansion hasn’t happened.
Rather than sulk, the club doubled down on winning in the USL. And in doing so, they’ve made a statement. You don’t need to be in MLS to be a successful American soccer club.
That’s a powerful message in an era when some teams prioritize branding over actual results.
Community Comes First
Phoenix Rising hasn’t lost sight of its community roots. The club regularly runs youth clinics, school programs, and local initiatives. They work with underserved communities. They open doors for kids who may not otherwise experience the game.
Their impact goes beyond soccer.
Whether it’s breast cancer awareness nights, food drives, or bilingual outreach, Phoenix Rising shows that it cares about Arizona. And in return, the people support the team fiercely.
What Makes Phoenix Different?
Phoenix Rising doesn’t just rise in the standings. It rises above expectations.
They’ve built a model club from scratch in a non-traditional soccer city. They’ve proven that you can build culture, attract fans, and win championships—all without the MLS badge.
That’s rare in American soccer. But it’s not accidental. It’s a result of clear vision, strong leadership, and never cutting corners.
Final Thoughts: Still Rising
In a crowded soccer landscape, Phoenix Rising FC stands out.
Not because they chase headlines. Not because of flashy signings. But because they’ve put the work in—every single season.
From Drogba to desert domination, the journey has been wild. Yet it feels like they’re just getting started. Whether they join MLS or continue to lead the USL, one thing’s clear:
Phoenix is still rising.
And they won’t stop anytime soon.
SC Toronto 2000 / 2001 Boys – PISL 2017-2018
Keep the conversation going! Follow Soccer Wizdom on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube for more soccer insights and updates.