February 28, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Charlotte FC News Release
Charlotte FC Head Coach Dean Smith featured on the CBS Golazo Morning Show to discuss Charlotte FC’s opener, the season ahead, and an extra bit on USMNT and Norwich striker Josh Sargent.
He was asked by the Morning Show crew what drew him to come to MLS and specifically Charlotte FC. He’s only ever attended two MLS matches, one LA Galaxy game in the 2000s and the second was Charlotte FC’s 2-0 win over the Red Bulls back in 2022. That experience “stuck” with him since, eventually leading to where he is today.
“I really liked everything about the stadium, the set up, and the support – and it probably stuck with me a little bit,” said Smith. “I was head coach of Norwich at the time in the Premier League. Since then things changed, I had some opportunities to coach in championship, but they didn’t quite tick my fancy and weren’t as challenging for fit my ambitions as much as this one did.
“So when the MLS job came up, I’ve never coached outside of the UK before, so to me it was a challenge and opportunity to pit my wits in a different culture and league. It really enticed me.”
Dean Smith had a dream start to his MLS career when his team triumphed over NYCFC in front of over 62,000 fans at Bank of America Stadium. Smith had been to a CLTFC match before, but the season opener was quite the spectacle that even left Smith impressed who’s experienced some of the most historic soccer atmospheres in the world.
“We really put on a show on Saturday evening. It was great to see. There was a flyover, there were fireworks, fans with the national anthem, and the Poznan. It was really exciting and it was really enjoyable as well. In the EPL they think they can put a show on, but no wait till you come here. I was really impressed with, and I think that set the standard for the game because certainly my players flew out of the blocks.”
As for what his long term goal is with the Club it’s to “set the culture and environment for people to go and succeed.”
The gaffer also touched on a previous player of his, U.S. International Josh Sargent, who he coached during his time in Premier League with Norwich.
“He can go and play in the EPL again, that’s for sure. He doesn’t have a ceiling at the moment. Unfortunately, he’s had a couple injuries, but he’s just come back now and scoring goals again in the championship with Norwich.
“He’s actually really mature for someone so young… he’s a really good footballer…
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