In a significant move, Charlotte FC has officially named former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith as its new head coach. This appointment comes in the wake of the departure of Christian Lattanzio, who led the team to its first-ever playoffs in the 2022 season but was ultimately let go after a crushing defeat in the Eastern Conference Wild Card game against the New York Red Bulls.
Dean Smith steps into this role with the prestigious legacy of his namesake, the renowned college basketball coach Dean Smith, who is celebrated as one of the greatest trainers in history. Expressing his excitement, Smith remarked, “I’m honored to be appointed as the next head coach of Charlotte FC and cannot wait to start preparations for the 2024 season. Throughout the interview process, it was clear that this is an ambitious club with the right ingredients for success, and I’m delighted to begin a new chapter in Charlotte.”
Smith recognizes the immense potential of Charlotte FC and the opportunity it presents to take Major League Soccer (MLS) to new heights. Having achieved promotion to the Premier League with Aston Villa in 2019 and successfully avoiding relegation the following season, Smith brings a wealth of experience to the table. Under his guidance, Villa secured an impressive 11th place finish in the 2020-21 season. In addition to Aston Villa, Smith has also managed other English clubs such as Brentford, Norwich City, Leicester, and Walsall.
David Tepper, owner of Charlotte FC, expressed his enthusiasm for Smith’s arrival, stating, “We’re excited to welcome Dean and his family to Charlotte as the next head coach of Charlotte FC.” The appointment of Smith signals the club’s dedication to building a strong foundation for success in the upcoming seasons.
With Dean Smith now at the helm, Charlotte FC is poised to make a bold statement in the world of MLS. The combination of Smith’s expertise and the club’s ambition creates a promising environment for achieving significant milestones. Both the players and fans eagerly anticipate the journey ahead, as the team looks to build upon its recent playoff success and make a lasting impact in the league.
Smith’s appointment marks a turning point for Charlotte FC, as the club seeks to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in MLS. With a comprehensive understanding of the game and a track record of success, Smith brings a fresh perspective and strategic approach to the team. His leadership will be crucial in developing a winning culture and shaping a squad capable of competing against the league’s strongest teams.
The arrival of Dean Smith as head coach for Charlotte FC heralds an exciting new chapter for the club. With his impressive managerial history and the ambition of Charlotte FC, Smith has the tools and support necessary to propel the team to new heights in the 2024 season and beyond. As fans eagerly await the start of the season, the stage is set for Charlotte FC to establish its presence in MLS under Smith’s guidance and leadership.