PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising was busy in the transfer window this offseason, signing multiple players to long-term contracts. Rising released many players at the end of last season, with additional players on loan returning to their parent club. Rising sporting director Brandon McCarthy explained the signings and the team’s commitment in a news conference last Tuesday, as Phoenix began its preparations for the regular season that begins March 7. The fanbase always returned the favor, with supporters in the Red Sea area of the Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium singing for 90 minutes throughout each home game, and using smoke grenades whenever the team scored a goal. Rising also pursued defender Aleksandar Vukovic and Diego Gomez, a midfielder who made a cap for Mexico in 2024.