Charlotte FC 2026 Season Preview

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Major League Soccer

·16 February 2026

By MLSsoccer staff

Charlotte FC have made two straight Audi MLS Cup Playoffs trips under head coach Dean Smith.

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Now, can Wilfried Zaha, Pep Biel, Tim Ream & Co. challenge for trophies in a crowded Eastern Conference?

It's an especially busy year for Zaha (Ivory Coast) and Ream (USA), who will look to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer.

Luca de la Torre: The USMNT midfielder, who spent last year on loan at San Diego FC, was acquired from LaLiga side Celta de Vigo.
Henry Kessler: The center back was signed via free agency. He’s previously competed for the New England Revolution and St. Louis CITY SC.
Tyler Miller: The veteran goalkeeper, who brings nine seasons of MLS experience, was acquired from EFL League One side Bolton Wanderers.
David Schnegg: The Austrian left back was claimed off waivers after departing D.C. United.

We can't wait to see LDLT in CLT 🤩
– Tuesday, 30 December 2025

Adilson Malanda: The French center back joined EFL Championship side Middlesbrough FC after his initial transfer included a loan back to Charlotte.
Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty: The Canadian defender spent 2025 on loan at Charlotte from CF Montréal, who traded him to Red Bull New York this winter.
Nikola Petković: The Serbian midfielder is on loan at Seattle Sounders FC, opening a U22 Initiative roster slot.
Eryk Williamson: The veteran midfielder was out of contract following the 2025 campaign.