English Head Coach Signs Deal Through 2027 as CLTFC Enjoys Best Start in Club History
CHARLOTTE, NC (Thursday, March 20, 2025) – Charlotte FC has secured the long-term future of Head Coach Dean Smith, announcing that the Englishman has signed a contract extension through the 2027 Major League Soccer season.
Smith, who took over as Charlotte’s head coach ahead of the 2024 campaign, has quickly turned the team into a competitive force, guiding them to their best-ever season and a historic first playoff victory last year.
Smith Excited for Future, Aims for Silverware
Upon signing his new contract, Smith expressed his gratitude to the club and its passionate supporters.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being the head coach of Charlotte FC and I’m honored to sign a new contract with the Club,” said Smith. “Everyone at the Club is aligned in our vision to be a leader in Major League Soccer. To our supporters, you have made our family feel welcome in this city, and for that, we’re grateful to each one of you.”
With Charlotte FC continuing its upward trajectory under his leadership, Smith made it clear that his focus is on bringing major trophies to the club.
“We will work together with the aim of consistently challenging for major trophies every season.”
Owner David Tepper Praises Smith’s Impact
Smith’s impact on the club has been widely recognized, and Charlotte FC owner David Tepper praised his leadership and commitment to excellence.
“Dean has been an exceptional leader for Charlotte FC and we are excited for him to sign a new contract,” Tepper stated. “The Club’s success over the past year is a reflection of his dedication and commitment to excellence both on and off the pitch. We look forward to what the future holds with Dean leading the way.”
Charlotte’s Rapid Rise Under Smith
Smith’s first season at the helm saw Charlotte FC secure a club-record 51 points, finishing with one of the league’s strongest defenses. Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina was a standout performer, earning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year honors, as Charlotte conceded the second-fewest goals in the league.
Now in his second season, Smith has led Charlotte FC to its best start in club history, with an unbeaten home record heading into the weekend’s matchup against San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Smith’s Premier League Pedigree
Before making the move to Major League Soccer, Smith built a reputation as a top-tier manager in England, with experience spanning over a decade across multiple levels of the English football pyramid.
His most notable tenure came with Aston Villa, where he guided the club to Premier League promotion in 2019 and helped re-establish them in England’s top flight. Smith also had managerial spells at Walsall FC, Brentford FC, Norwich City FC, and Leicester City FC, where he played a role in some of England’s most competitive football landscapes.
With his MLS experience growing and Charlotte FC’s momentum building, Smith’s long-term commitment signals an ambitious future for the club, with fans hopeful that his leadership will bring major success to the Queen City.
In other news, USL Makes History with First-Ever Promotion and Relegation System in U.S. Soccer
