Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC has announced the loan of forward Georgios Koutsias to FC Lugano. The agreement, effective January 1, 2025, is set for a year with an option for a permanent transfer at its conclusion.

This move creates both a U-22 Initiative slot and an International Roster spot for Chicago Fire. The club retains the right to recall Koutsias at any time, following MLS roster compliance guidelines.

"We're excited to see Georgios continue his development with our partners at FC Lugano," stated Gregg Berhalter, Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach. "He expressed a desire to return to Europe, and this move gives him the opportunity to continue growing in a highly competitive league. It also provides us with increased roster flexibility as we work to build a strong team for the 2025 season."

Koutsias joined Chicago Fire from PAOK FC in Greece on February 28, 2023. Over two seasons with the team, he made 57 appearances (18 starts) and scored five goals with three assists in MLS regular season play. He also netted two goals in five Leagues Cup matches during the 2023 and 2024 tournaments.

On the international stage, Koutsias has played for Greece's U-17 through U-21 teams, scoring 16 goals in 34 appearances. He currently captains Greece’s U-21 team and has scored four goals in UEFA Euro U-21 Championship qualification matches.

Transaction: Chicago Fire FC loans forward Georgios Koutsias to FC Lugano. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the move will be a year-long loan with an option for a permanent transfer at the conclusion of the deal.