Fire Cash In on Koutsias After Successful Swiss Loan Spell
Chicago Fire have completed the transfer of Georgios Koutsias to Swiss Super League squad FC Lugano.
The Greek forward’s move to Switzerland is now permanent after initially heading there on loan last December. Koutsias carved out a solid role with Lugano, bagging 10 goals and adding two assists across 38 appearances in all competitions during his stint.
Chicago originally brought the 21-year-old over from Greek powerhouse PAOK FC ahead of the 2023 campaign, utilizing a U22 Initiative slot to secure his services. His time in MLS produced mixed results—7 goals and 3 assists spread across 65 matches in all competitions over two seasons with the Fire.
Berhalter Signals Roster Evolution
Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter made it clear the sale fits into Chicago’s broader plans. The club is banking on financial flexibility to upgrade their roster ahead of next season.
“We would like to thank Georgios for his contributions to the Fire during his time with the club and are thrilled that he has found a place at FC Lugano. This transfer allows us to keep building on a good 2025 to put together a stronger roster for 2026.”
The deal represents another outgoing move for Chicago this winter, following Brian Gutiérrez’s recent departure to Chivas. The Fire are clearly in roster reconstruction mode after missing the playoffs again.
Young Gun Finds His Level Overseas
Koutsias never quite found consistent rhythm in MLS. While flashes of quality emerged, the Greek youth international struggled to lock down regular minutes in Chicago’s attacking setup. His loan spell in Switzerland changed that narrative entirely.
Lugano clearly saw enough to pull the trigger on a permanent deal. Double-digit goals in a European league carries weight, especially for a player still developing at just 21 years old.
For the Fire, it’s addition by subtraction. They free up roster space and likely pocket a decent fee while sending Koutsias somewhere he’s already proven he can produce. Both sides walk away winners from this one.
