USL League One Champion Gustavo Fernandes Signs with NY Empire FC

NY Empire FC is proud to announce the signing of professional defender Gustavo Fernandes, adding high-level experience and leadership to the Empire backline ahead of the upcoming UPSL season.

Fernandes joins the club following a difficult and unexpected situation in the professional ranks. The defender had recently signed with Tormenta FC of USL League One, but the organization abruptly folded just weeks before the start of the season — a shocking development that left players and staff across the professional soccer community searching for their next steps.

With the season suddenly halted, Fernandes returned home to Long Island to regroup with family. Now, he brings his professional experience to NY Empire FC, where he will compete with the first team while also contributing to the club’s growing youth development programs.

“Gustavo is the type of player and person we want in this club,” said Coach Max Ferro, Head Coach of NY Empire FC. “He has real professional experience, he’s a competitor, and he’s passionate about helping the next generation of players. Having someone like him around our locker room and our youth program is massive.”

Fernandes has built an impressive professional résumé in USL League One. He began his professional career with Forward Madison FC after impressing during the club’s preseason camp in early 2020. He made his league debut on July 25, 2020 against North Texas SC, quickly establishing himself as a reliable defender.

In 2022, Fernandes signed with North Carolina FC, where he became part of one of the league’s strongest squads. During his time there, the club captured the 2023 USL League One Championship, adding a major professional title to his career.

He continued his professional journey in 2024 with the Chattanooga Red Wolves, further building his reputation as a disciplined and intelligent defender capable of competing at a high level.

Soccer runs deep in the Fernandes family. His older brother Leo Fernandes plays professionally for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, while his twin brother Gabriel Fernandes played and now coaches the Stony Brook Seawolves at the NCAA Division I level.

Now back on Long Island, Fernandes brings his experience home — both to strengthen NY Empire FC on the field and to mentor the next generation of Empire players.

His presence adds another layer of professionalism to a club that continues to attract players with high-level experience and strong ties to the local soccer community.

Welcome to the Empire, Gustavo. 🟡⚫