Hartford Athletic have signed midfielder Juan Pablo Torres for the remainder of the 2023 season, pending league and federation approval.
“I’m happy to be signing with Hartford Athletic and am grateful for the opportunity,” said Torres. “I couldn’t be more excited to play under Coach Ramos again and compete under his leadership. I have experienced first hand his ability to not only bring the most out of his players, but also the most out of his teams as a whole. I hope I can come in and help this team do something special this year.”
Torres comes to Hartford after a quality 2022 campaign with Rio Grande Valley FC Toros. The 23 year old scored three goals and recorded three assists across thirty games, while helping the Toros to a 14-7-13 record and a spot in the USL Championship playoffs.
“We’re excited to have Juan Pablo on board,” said Head Coach Tab Ramos. “He’s a technical player with a great ability to cover ground. He is a former U20 National Team and MLS player, and although he is young, he comes with a lot of experience.”
Torres began his professional career with Belgian club KSC Lokeren before signing with MLS side NYCFC in January of 2019, where he spent two full seasons. Torres made six appearances with NYCFC, three of which were in the Lamar Hunt U.S Open Cup. He recorded an assist in their fourth round matchup against North Carolina FC during the 2019 tournament. Before the start of the 2021 season, Torres was sent on season-long loan to former USL Championship club Austin Bold FC. He made 25 starts and provided defensive support in the midfield, making 18 tackles while swiping 16 interceptions.
“Juan Pablo is a talented midfielder who will help us maintain possession,” said Technical Director Ray Reid. “He has a great engine and will fit in perfectly with how Coach Ramos wants to play. We are excited to have him on board.”
The Lilburn, Georgia, native brings decorated international experience to Hartford, totaling 18 caps combined while representing the United States Youth National Teams at the U15, U16, U18, and U20 levels. In 2018, Torres played for Hartford Head Coach Tab Ramos at the U20 level and made seven appearances, netted four goals, and tallied two assists on the way to a CONCACAF title for the United States, defeating Mexico 2-0 in the final.
Torres will be available for selection in Hartford’s next match at Birmingham on Sunday, April 30th at 5:00 PM.
