Clay Holstad has been loaned to Major League Soccer's FC Dallas. He is the first Rhode Island FC player to earn an MLS move.
The loan is until the end of the 2026 season. There is an option for FC Dallas to purchase Holstad at the conclusion of the loan.
“On and off the field, Clay has been a crucial piece of our squad since our inaugural season, and we are extremely proud of him for getting the opportunity to compete at the highest level,” said Rhode Island FC head coach and general manager Khano Smith. “Sending players to Major League Soccer showcases our club’s proven ability to develop players for the next level. Clay has an extremely promising career ahead, and we wish him the best of luck representing our club on the country’s biggest stage."
The midfielder has featured in all but five games in Rhode Island FC’s history. He ranks second all-time with 96 career appearances and 7,448 minutes logged in just under three seasons with RIFC. Holstad is one of five players to reach double figures in goals for the club in its young history, scoring 10 times and adding eight assists.
Prior to joining RIFC, the Birmingham, Alabama, native was selected by the Columbus Crew in the second round of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. Holstad started 19 games in 26 appearances throughout the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro season with Columbus Crew 2, scoring one goal and creating one assist in 1,761 minutes during his rookie season.
FC Dallas outlet Big D Soccer noted that Holstad will reunite with FC Dallas Head Coach Eric Quill, who coached him at Texans SC during his youth career in Houston.
