December 4, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Charlotte Independence News Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence announced today the first four players signed for the club’s 2024 USL League One season. All four players are returners from the Jacks’ historic 2023 season when they advanced to the USL League One Finals. The young, rising talent includes:
Midfielders: Rayan Djedje, Bachir Ndiaye, Luis Álvarez
Goalkeeper: Matt Levy
“As we build for the 2024 season, we continue to maintain a focus on building a talented, young roster and developing young talent,” Head Coach Mike Jeffries said. “For the most part, 2023 was the first professional season for the four – I look forward to working with them and seeing them progress in 2024.”
Rayan Djedje (M)
A midseason signing who made an instant impact, Djedje, returns ready to start the 2024 season strong. Djedje scored two goals in his first four games for the Independence, including one in his first-ever start for the Jacks. After missing some time due to injury, the Frenchman made his way back onto the pitch during the 2023 playoffs.
“I’m so excited to be back and play in front of these beautiful fans and fight for them every game,” Djedje commented. “Last season I played only half the season, but this new season I promise to do more again for this team and show you the real Rayan Djedje.”
Bachir Ndiaye (M)
Following his professional debut in 2023, Ndiaye returns to the Independence for his second season. Ndiaye helped distribute the ball throughout the midfield for the Jacks who ranked first in the league in passing accuracy as a team last season. Although Ndiaye had a lengthy absence due to injury, he emerged as a consistent starter for Charlotte in the homestretch.
“After the run we had at the end of the season, I am very excited to pick up where we left off with one goal in mind and that is to be a champion at the end of the season,” Ndiaye stated.
Luis Álvarez (M)
Álvarez also returns for his second season with the Independence. He scored his first goal for the club on September 9 against Chattanooga Red Wolves SC in front of the home supporters. Álvarez also recorded the assist for Charlotte’s lone goal in the 2023 USL League One Final. The Honduran appeared in 30 matches for the Jacks last season.
“For me it is an incredible joy to defend the Charlotte Independence badge again,” Álvarez shared. “It is a new year with many goals to achieve as a team and new goals personally. We hope…