December 21, 2022 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Charlotte FC News Release
To say it was an eventful 2023 MLS SuperDraft for Charlotte FC would be an understatement. Coming into the SuperDraft, Charlotte had the 20th pick overall pick but through leveraging allocation money traded to acquire the #1 and #12 overall picks. A move that many likely weren’t expecting.
“We thought that this year that the draft had some interesting players that we liked, talented players,” said Charlotte FC Sporting Director Zoran Krneta. “We also liked that they had something we are missing in our squad that we will be able to develop.”
Charlotte became the first team since D.C. United in 2003-04 to number one overall in consecutive SuperDraft. They utilized the pick to dip their hand back into the Carolina collegiate pool to select Clemson defender and 2021 NCAA College Cup Champion Hamady Diop first overall.
Originally from Senegal, Diop came to the United States when he was 14 years old to pursue his dream of playing soccer professionally. When Diop first arrived at Clemson, it was none other than current CLTFC player and 2022 SuperDraft pick George Marks that took him under his wing. The duo will be reunited at Charlotte FC, something that they’re both looking forward to, with Diop referring to Marks as like an older brother.
A versatile defender, Diop has played across the entire backline throughout his playing career at Clemson. His athleticism is immediately noticeable, but CLTFC Director of Scouting, Thomas Schaling, highlighted his ball-carrying, passing, and ability to defend in large spaces as his standout traits.
Charlotte FC had the second-highest average attendance in their inaugural season, and when asked about the prospect of potentially playing in front of over 35,000 people, this is what Diop had to say.
“I’m super excited… It’s just great knowing how invested the fans are in the team.”
Diop isn’t the only one excited about his arrival in Charlotte. The coaching staff is looking forward to helping Diop realize his full potential. Developing local youth has always been a priority of the club, and Diop is a player the coaches are particularly excited to work with.
“Christian Lattanzio and his team are the types of coaches who like to develop players,” said Krneta.”The coaches are excited. They know him and are really excited to develop him to be a cornerstone of the team.”
The first round of the SuperDraft didn’t stop with Diop, however. The 12th pick was used…
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