MLS pundit Dax McCarty has announced his early Best XI selections for the 2025 season, featuring Charlotte FC players Pep Biel and Adilson Malanda. McCarty also regards Biel as his early candidate for MVP honors this season.
Charlotte FC, having a promising start with their long season ahead, is represented by both players in the Best XI. Commenting on Malanda’s inclusion, McCarty stated, “Charlotte have three starting-quality center backs on their roster, and it’s never a question of Adilson Malanda being rotated. It’s either Tim Ream or Andrew Privett paired with him, which speaks volumes. Malanda’s passing between the lines is a weapon and he’s one of the league’s most physically imposing center backs. I expect Charlotte to field significant offers for him in the summer. The 23-year-old has a huge ceiling.”
Regarding Biel, McCarty says, “Pep Biel is my early frontrunner for MVP. He’s on one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, and he’s carried an inconsistent attack so far. We’ve expected more out of Wilfried Zaha and Patrick Agyemang, but Biel has been Charlotte’s most important player in the final third. He’s really settled in after a so-so introduction last season, providing timely goals and through-balls.”
The selections underscore the impact both players have had on Charlotte FC’s performance so far, with expectations high for their continued contributions as the season progresses.
