What We Learned in Preseason Under New Head Coach Dean Smith

February 19, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Charlotte FC News Release

Charlotte FC concluded their inaugural preseason under Dean Smith unbeaten with an impressive record of three wins, three draws, and zero losses, showcasing promising performances in both behind-closed-doors friendlies and the Coachella Valley Invitational. This period provided fans with a preview of what perhaps lies ahead for Charlotte under their new head coach.

What insights can we glean from Dean Smith’s approach and the team’s preseason endeavors? Let’s delve into some key takeaways from Charlotte’s preparations for the 2024 season.

Attitude, Application, and Teamwork

Under Smith’s stewardship, Charlotte FC is built on a bedrock of three fundamental pillars: attitude, application, and teamwork. Throughout the preseason, these principles echoed through every aspect of the team’s training sessions and matches.

“The three things I asked for at the start of the game were attitude, application, and teamwork,” Smith said following a 1-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. “I thought we got all three of them. If you’re seeing that in the 87th minute (multiple players sprinting back to defend a counter attack), then you know they’re showing all three of them attributes, which are going to be massively important if the team is going to be successful.”

Emphasizing a positive mindset coupled with a desire to learn and improve is paramount. In all his talks to the team – whether on the training pitch or the halftime locker room – Smith asks pointed questions of his players, forcing them to solve problems on their own and create a more active, collaborative approach to learning.

The team is encouraged not only to absorb knowledge but apply it to continue to grow and, ultimately, leave the field with three points.

Direct Play on the Ball

Beyond these psychological principles, Smith has demonstrated clarity in the style he wants his team to play – both in training and in matches.

Smith’s tactical philosophy diverges from the methodical build-up play often seen from Charlotte FC. While possession remains crucial, Smith favors a more direct approach, characterized by incisive runs and forward, line-breaking passes to quickly advance up the field.

The fullbacks have a pivotal role in facilitating this direct style of play. Departing from previous inverted tactics, they adopt a more traditional overlapping role. They supplement attacks by creating overloads and threatening with crosses to…