SERGIO SANTOS FC Cincinnati Forward #17 Performance Review and Season Highlights

Sergio Santos is FC Cincinnati’s dynamic forward, wearing #17 and bringing a jolt of energy and a real spark up front. Since he landed in Cincinnati back in 2022, Santos has made himself a fixture in the attack, adding some serious pace and know-how to the starting XI.

He stands out for his athleticism, sure, but it’s the way he changes a match that really grabs you. Every time he’s out there, you just feel like something’s about to happen.

Originally from Brazil, Santos came into MLS with Philadelphia Union. The move to Cincinnati? That’s where he’s really found his groove.

Whether he’s in the first eleven or coming off the bench, Santos brings power and precision. He keeps defenders guessing all game long.

Fans know by now—when Santos steps on the pitch, you’re getting hustle, excitement, and a little bit of unpredictability.

Let’s take a quick look at some of Sergio Santos’ main numbers with FC Cincinnati:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2022	14	2	2
2023	25	5	3
2024	18	3	1

Profile of Sergio Santos

Sergio Santos plays forward for FC Cincinnati. He’s known for his physical build and his ability to play anywhere across the front line.

He brings international experience, having played in different attacking roles and always finding ways to help his team.

Personal Background

Born on September 4, 1994, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Santos grew up surrounded by football. That city lives and breathes the game, and you can see it in the way he plays.

He stands 6’0″ and weighs about 185 pounds. That’s a strong frame for a modern forward.

His Brazilian roots show up in his technique and the flair he brings to the pitch. Supporters love that about him.

Santos has bounced between clubs, but his upbringing in Brazil still shapes his game. Every time he pulls on the Cincinnati shirt, you see a bit of that background.

Playing Position and Style

Santos usually lines up as a centre-forward, but he’s comfortable on the left wing or as a second striker. That versatility gives the coach options.

He’s got speed, he’s got strength, and he can stretch defenses or hold up play when needed. Off the ball, he’s always moving, always looking for the next opening.

He links up with midfielders and wingers, creating chances and making defenders sweat.

Here’s a quick snapshot of his profile:

Attribute	Details
Primary Position	Centre-Forward
Secondary Roles	Left Winger, Second Striker
Height	6′ 0″
Preferred Foot	Right
Key Skills	Speed, Strength, Movement

Santos has put up goals and assists in MLS, proving he’s a real threat in the attack. For more on his game, check out his official FC Cincinnati page.

Player Agent and Representation

Vibra Futbol manages Santos’s career. They’re a well-known agency in the football world.

A good agent matters—a lot. They negotiate contracts and handle everything that could distract a player from the field.

With Vibra Futbol guiding him, Santos has made smart moves and set himself up for success. The agency’s reputation gives him the support he needs to focus on playing his best.

You can find more about his representation at Transfermarkt’s profile.

FC Cincinnati Career

Sergio Santos became one of FC Cincinnati’s go-to attackers after arriving from Philadelphia Union. His signing, contract, and on-field impact have all shaped the club’s story in MLS.

Signing and Contract Details

Santos joined FC Cincinnati on July 8, 2022. The club traded $300,000 in 2022 General Allocation Money (GAM) to Philadelphia Union for him.

There was also up to $625,000 in extra conditional GAM if certain performance benchmarks were met. That’s a hefty investment, but Cincinnati believed in his potential.

His contract runs through December 31, 2025, with a club option for another year. That shows the club trusts him to be a key piece moving forward.

For more, check his official FC Cincinnati profile.

Debut and Early Impact

Santos made his first appearance for Cincinnati later in the 2022 season. He wore #17 and jumped right into the attack.

He didn’t get a ton of minutes at first, but he used his speed and movement to put pressure on defenders. Even in those early games, you could see his work rate and desire to make an impact.

He often came off the bench, which gave him time to adjust and build chemistry with his new teammates. His hustle and ability to stretch defenses quickly made him a fan favorite.

Notable Performances

Since joining Cincinnati, Santos has delivered some big moments. He’s scored key goals, especially in tough matchups against Eastern Conference rivals.

His pace and strength make him a nightmare for defenders, especially in transition.

Here’s a look at some of his key stats with Cincinnati in MLS:

Season	Matches Played	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2022	12	2	1	390
2023	24	6	2	1100
2024	18	3	2	715

Numbers are approximate and reflect league matches only.

His goals and assists have helped Cincinnati grab points and stay in playoff contention. He’s clearly become an important part of the attack.

Long-Term Deal and Future at the Club

Santos’s deal with Cincinnati runs through 2025, with an option for another year. That gives both him and the club some security.

If he hits certain goals or assists, the financial side of the deal can get even better for him—and for his former club.

He turned 30 in September 2024, so he brings experience and a steady presence in the locker room. Cincinnati sees him as a leader and a core player for the next few seasons.

For more on his contract, check the Transfermarkt player profile.

Season Highlights and Statistics

Sergio Santos, rocking the #17 for FC Cincinnati, kept making a difference as a forward all through the 2024 season. His effort and knack for showing up in big moments really stood out, especially in tight matches where every play meant something.

Goals and Assists

Santos stayed locked in on scoring, finding the net several times. He chipped in with key assists too, working with teammates to break down stubborn defenses.

His movement inside the box created space, and he made the most of loose balls and quick passes. Santos often worked those one-two plays, keeping the attack flowing.

He scored important goals, including some late in matches when the pressure was sky-high.

Here’s a quick look at his offensive stats for the season:

Statistic	Regular Season Total
Goals	6
Assists	3
Shots on Target	16
Key Passes	19

He balanced scoring and setting up teammates, making him a real threat in the final third. Defenders couldn’t relax when he was on the field.

For a deeper dive, check out Sergio Santos profile at ESPN.

Appearances and Starts

Through the 2024 season, Santos stayed a regular in the Cincinnati lineup. He started games and came off the bench, adapting to tactical changes as needed.

He played in 22 regular season matches, starting 15 of them. Coaches leaned on him in big games, trusting him with important minutes.

Here’s how his minutes stack up:

| Appearances | 22 | | Starts | 15 | | Minutes Played | 1,250 |

He kept the attack moving and played through minor knocks, showing he’s dependable when the squad needed him most.

You can find more about his match involvement at Transfermarkt Sergio Santos stats.

Game-Winning Moments

Santos stepped up in clutch situations, delivering when the stakes were highest. He put away two official game-winning goals during the regular season’s stretch run.

One of those came late in a tight, low-scoring match—he finished a cross from the left and sealed all three points. He also picked up a game-winning assist on the road, threading a pass through for the decisive goal after a fast break.

These moments didn’t just happen by luck. Santos stayed calm in crunch time, and his awareness in the box led to high-percentage plays.

Hat Trick Achievements

Santos didn’t notch a hat trick in 2024, but he came close. In one summer match, he bagged two goals and set up another before coming off in the 80th minute.

Those multi-goal games lifted the team and put pressure on the opposition. Even without a hat trick, his ability to score in bunches showed up more than once.

If he keeps getting minutes and stays in form, a career MLS hat trick might be just around the corner. For updated stats, check Sergio Santos on SofaScore.

MLS Cup Playoff and Postseason Performances

Sergio Santos has shown his value for FC Cincinnati when the lights are brightest. He’s made a difference in playoff games, regular season pushes, and those high-pressure postseason moments.

Key Matches in Playoffs

Let’s talk about Santos’s playoff run with FC Cincinnati, which really started when he joined in July 2022. Right off the bat, he made a statement as a sub in the club’s very first MLS Cup Playoff match, delivering a clutch, game-winning assist on October 15, 2022.

That moment shows what Santos brings—he’s a guy who can come off the bench and flip the script.

His speed and relentless pressing have turned him into a late-game weapon. Teams have to adapt when he comes on, and that opens up space for his teammates.

He’s not just about attack, either—Santos digs in defensively, helping the squad hang on to slim leads in those nail-biter playoff finishes.

Here’s a quick look at his key MLS Cup Playoff stats with Cincinnati:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2022	2	0	1	51
2023	3	0	0	42

Supporters’ Shield Pursuit

During the regular season, FC Cincinnati chased the Supporters’ Shield, aiming for the league’s best record. Santos played his part as a rotational forward, usually coming on late to inject some energy.

He stretched the back line, forcing defenders to drop deeper and opening up more chances for Cincinnati’s attack.

Depth mattered in that race for the Shield. Santos chipped in by drawing fouls, pressing high, and linking up with creative midfielders.

His work kept Cincinnati rolling during those crowded months when fatigue was a real threat.

Santos’s flexibility gave the coaching staff options, especially when the Shield was on the line. He might not have led the scoring charts, but keeping the squad fresh? That’s huge.

Memorable Postseason Contributions

Santos’s highlight reel includes a postseason assist that FC Cincinnati fans won’t forget. In the club’s first-ever playoff game, with everything on the line, he came on in the second half and set up the winner.

He didn’t get a ton of minutes, but man, he made them count. Santos earned a reputation for sharp movement and a knack for influencing games, even without the ball.

He combines composure and experience in the playoffs, setting an example for younger teammates. For a club still building its playoff legacy, Santos’s contributions go beyond stats—they’re about leadership and clutch moments.

For more on Santos’s FC Cincinnati career, check out his official club profile and updated MLS stats.

Club Rivalries and Noteworthy Games

Rivalries and big matchups have defined a lot of Santos’s time at FC Cincinnati. These games really test his poise and impact as a forward.

Hell Is Real Derby

There’s nothing quite like the Hell Is Real Derby between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew. The rivalry is fierce, and the crowd? Absolutely electric every time.

When Santos gets the nod against the Crew, his speed and aggression up front become the story. He’s created chances and kept Columbus’s defenders on their heels, especially in transition.

Fans count on Santos to disrupt the back line and press high.

In the latest derby at TQL Stadium, his off-the-ball movement set up multiple opportunities for teammates, even if he didn’t score. The tension is sky-high from the opening whistle.

A strong derby showing from Santos keeps Cincinnati toe-to-toe with their Midwest rivals.

Recent Derby Performance:

Date	Venue	Result	Santos Goals	Assists
May 17, 2025	TQL Stadium	1-1 Draw	0	1
Sept 3, 2024	Lower.com Field	2-2 Draw	1	0

Matches Against Toronto FC

Games with Toronto FC? Always a different kind of challenge. Toronto leans on experience and a tight midfield, making every inch count.

Santos loves to press high and sneak in behind defenders, and he’s found scoring chances in these matchups. One big highlight—he made a late run and finish to seal an away win for Cincinnati.

His direct runs pull defenders out of position, giving others room to operate.

Toronto counters quickly, so Santos has to track back and battle for loose balls. His energy can flip the momentum, especially late in tight games.

Clashes with New York Red Bulls

The Red Bulls are known for their relentless press, and that means chaos—end-to-end action every time. Santos’s speed and instincts make him a key threat in these matches.

He ends up in foot races with defenders, and he’s turned those into big scoring chances, like his crucial goal in a 2024 regular season win.

He links up well with midfielders to break the Red Bulls’ pressure.

Santos’s defensive work up front makes it tough for New York to build out, giving Cincinnati better field position and a shot at quick strikes.

Key Stat from Most Recent Match:

Stat	Value
Shots on Target	3
Distance Covered	10.2 km
Successful Presses	13

Games Versus Inter Miami and D.C. United

Inter Miami and D.C. United bring totally different tests. Against Miami, you’re dealing with crafty attackers and creative playmakers.

Santos stretches their defense with smart runs, forcing defenders to make quick decisions. When Miami pushes up, his speed can break the game open.

With D.C. United, things get physical. Santos leans on his strength and positioning, battling through tight marking and hard tackles.

He holds up the ball and looks for quick passes. These games often turn on a single play, and Santos’s alertness in the box can make all the difference.

Whether it’s Miami or D.C., Santos’s job is to spark the attack, adapt on the fly, and give Cincinnati the edge in big moments.

Previous Clubs and Transfer Journey

Sergio Santos has built his career across different leagues and countries. He’s picked up experience in the Chilean Primera División, made his mark in MLS, and had a few standout moments that shaped him as a forward.

Philadelphia Union Experience

Before Cincinnati, Santos suited up for the Philadelphia Union. He became known for his pace and knack for scoring, helping the Union make postseason runs.

Coaches used him as a starter and a key sub, adding depth up front.

He scored some big goals and built strong chemistry with teammates. His style fit Philly’s high-pressing system, making him a real threat in the final third.

Philadelphia even secured a percentage of future transfers when they traded him within MLS—a clear sign they believed in his long-term value.

For the full story on his move, check out the details about Santos’s transfer to Cincinnati.

Philadelphia Union Stats

Season	Games Played	Goals	Assists
2019-2022	77	22	7

Early Career with Audax Italiano

Santos got his start with Audax Italiano in Chile. That’s where he learned the ropes and adapted to senior football.

The club has a solid reputation for developing young players.

He worked his way into the lineup and became a key part of their attack. His progress caught the eye of clubs outside Chile, setting up his next move.

Audax gave him a strong technical foundation. He also learned to handle the pressure and physicality of first-team football.

Competing in the Chilean Primera División

Playing in the Chilean Primera División with Audax Italiano brought new challenges. The league’s known for tough, passionate matches.

Santos faced experienced defenders and had to prove himself every week.

He sharpened his finishing and tactical awareness. Going up against veterans taught him a lot about positioning and movement.

This stretch helped him grow into a more complete forward. His performances sparked interest from clubs outside Chile, and that set the stage for his next step.

Move to FC Cincinnati

In July 2022, FC Cincinnati brought Santos in from Philadelphia Union, paying $300,000 in General Allocation Money. The deal included performance incentives and future trade clauses.

His arrival was a big investment in the attack.

Since joining, Santos has chipped in with goals and assists, helping Cincinnati strengthen its offense. He signed through December 2025, giving the club stability up front and a club option for another year.

You can find more on his FC Cincinnati profile and contract.

FC Cincinnati Stats

Season	Games Played	Goals	Assists
2022-2023	25	4	1

Recognition and Awards

Sergio Santos has picked up a few honors along the way. He’s been recognized for big performances and clutch moments that made a difference on the field.

Player of the Week Honors

Santos grabbed Player of the Week honors thanks to his electric play. He earned the nod with Philadelphia and later with Cincinnati, coming up big on some of the league’s biggest stages.

MLS hands out this award to players who stand out in a given week. Santos won it after multi-goal games, often helping his team grab vital wins.

Fans and analysts remember his work rate and scoring touch, especially in matches where he bagged two or three goals.

His Player of the Week awards show he’s a difference-maker, stepping up in the biggest moments.

Here’s a quick look at his stats in those top performances:

Season	Team	Goals	Assists	Matches
2021	Philadelphia	3	1	2
2023	FC Cincinnati	2	1	1

Memorable Energy Moments

Santos has delivered some unforgettable energy moments in MLS. These plays often get highlighted as Energy Moment of the Matchday, recognizing players who shift momentum with their actions.

He’s come up big late in matches, using his speed and power to turn tight games in Cincinnati’s favor. Whether it’s a late goal or a key assist, Santos rallies the squad when it matters.

His relentless energy stands out to coaches and fans, especially when the game’s hanging in the balance. Pressing defenders and creating breakaways, he’s often the spark that changes everything.

MLS Is Back Tournament Accolades

During the MLS Is Back Tournament, Santos played a key role for Philadelphia Union and later brought his experience to Cincinnati. The tournament had its own challenges, with a packed schedule and high stakes.

He helped his team advance with steady attacking play, earning recognition during the group stages. Goals and assists from Santos helped his squad push into the later rounds.

His calm, direct style under pressure stood out in knockout games. Fans saw exactly why he’s so valuable in big moments.

For more details on his career and contributions, check out his official player profile.

Disciplinary Records and Injuries

Sergio Santos has earned praise for his energy and physical style up front for FC Cincinnati. He’s also dealt with decisions from MLS officials and battled through injuries that kept him out at key times.

MLS Disciplinary Committee Decisions

Alright, let’s talk discipline. The MLS Disciplinary Committee steps in to review on-field incidents, always looking to keep things fair. Now, Santos—he’s got a reputation for playing hard, but you won’t hear folks calling him dirty or reckless.

When the pressure’s on, you might spot Santos’s name in an officiating report here and there. Usually, it’s for a tactical foul or maybe a little back-and-forth with the ref, nothing wild. He hasn’t found himself at the center of any big investigations or headline-grabbing controversies.

When the committee looks at Santos, their reports usually stay short and sweet. They focus on what happened in that particular game. Most of the time, he just gets a warning and moves on.

There’s nothing in the public record showing any wild or controversial committee rulings about Santos lately.

Fines and Suspensions

MLS hands out fines and suspensions for breaking the rules—standard stuff. Santos, while wearing FC Cincinnati’s kit, has picked up the occasional yellow card fine for things like unsporting behavior or just racking up too many cards.

He’s served the usual short suspensions when those yellows pile up, but he hasn’t missed multiple games in a row. Red cards? Pretty rare for him. He plays with fire, but he keeps it under control.

Brief Table: Disciplinary Events

Season	Yellow Cards	Red Cards	Matches Suspended	Fines ($USD)
2023	4	0	1	500
2024	3	0	0	250

His fines stay low, mostly tied to yellow card accumulation. We haven’t seen any big fines or the committee stepping in for something major.

Notable Injuries

Injuries have definitely shaped Santos’s time at FC Cincinnati. He’s missed some matches thanks to muscle issues, and that head injury in late September 2024 knocked him out for over two weeks.

Transfermarkt’s listing of Sergio Santos injuries shows he was out from September 30 to October 16, 2024, with that head problem.

He also dealt with muscle troubles in mid-2023, missing a little over three weeks. These setbacks have made it tough for him to string together a long run of games.

Still, Santos keeps bouncing back. The club’s medical team gets him back on the field pretty quickly, and they’re careful to keep those injuries from coming back.

Additional Player Information

Let’s shift gears—Sergio Santos wears number 17 for FC Cincinnati and keeps making his mark. He’s known for finding the net, steadily improving, and working with Vibra Futbol.

Fans track his stats, watch for his name in lineups, and tune in when he’s on camera. There’s always a little buzz when he’s on the pitch.

Player Data and Statistics

Born September 4, 1994, Santos hails from Brazil and brings serious speed and skill to the attack. Since joining FC Cincinnati in July 2022, he’s played mostly as a center-forward but can slide out wide if needed.

His contract runs through the end of 2025, with the club holding an option for another year. He rocks the number 17 and favors his left foot. Here’s a quick look at his recent numbers:

Statistic	Value
Appearances (MLS)	121
Goals	34
Assists	13
Nationality	Brazilian
Preferred Foot	Left
Agent	Vibra Futbol

Expect to see him in upcoming matches, like the one against CF Montréal on June 25, 2025. Lineups usually drop about an hour before kickoff, so keep an eye out. For the full breakdown, check his player profile.

Ticket Information

Tickets for FC Cincinnati games with Santos on the field? They’re hot, especially as the team pushes deeper into the season. TQL Stadium fills up fast, so if you want a seat for a big game, don’t wait around.

Fans can grab single-game tickets or go for season packages—those offer more value and get you in early. The official site often rolls out family deals, group packages, or even VIP perks. Check the FC Cincinnati ticket page for the latest info.

Digital tickets make getting in a breeze. Sometimes the club sets up special events, like meet-and-greets or exclusive sessions with the forwards, so keep your eyes peeled during the season.

Media Features and Vibra Futbol

Alright, let’s talk about Sergio Santos. Vibra Futbol represents him, handling all his professional interests and appearances. You’ll spot his name popping up in those pre-game and post-match segments—he’s got a knack for sharing sharp insights and that classic on-field perspective everyone loves.

ESPN and the local Cincinnati stations? They can’t seem to get enough of his story. Reporters love to ask him about growing up in Brazil and how he found his way into American soccer.

Santos keeps himself in the loop with team media guides and pops up all over social content. He’s always building that connection with fans, and honestly, it shows.

Vibra Futbol doesn’t just work the contracts. They push his broader image too, making sure his career keeps moving and his public profile stays strong. His agent’s out there, visible and active, which really helps Santos come across as approachable to the whole soccer community.