French Ligue 2 side Valenciennes FC has sent its promising 20-year-old Cameroonian defensive midfielder, Jean-Eric Moursou, on loan to Phoenix Rising FC in the United States for the upcoming season. This move gives the young talent an opportunity to gain valuable playing time abroad in one of North America’s fastest-growing leagues.
Moursou, developed at Valenciennes, has already shown qualities that mark him as a rising star: tactical awareness, intelligence in breaking up play, and solid defensive presence. Moving to Phoenix Rising FC allows him to step into a new football culture in the USL Championship, a competitive league that continues to attract players from Europe and Africa.
For Valenciennes, this loan represents an investment in the player’s development. By earning consistent minutes in the United States, Moursou will benefit from the physicality, intensity, and athletic demands of American football — experience that can prepare him for higher levels once he returns.
Meanwhile, Phoenix Rising FC sees Moursou as a valuable addition to strengthen their midfield balance. The Arizona-based club, reigning USL Championship winners, continues to blend experienced players with young international talents. For Moursou, the challenge will be to adapt quickly and make his mark, potentially using this loan spell as a springboard to fulfill his ambition of playing top-flight European football.