South Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC returned to MLS action this past weekend with several new additions. The team’s summer signings made their debuts, offering a glimpse into the potential future as the playoffs approach.

The Crown was active during the transfer window, starting with the return of Karol Swiderski, who had already scored against Austin and added another goal this past Saturday. The front office concluded the window by acquiring USMNT defender Tim Ream, attacking midfielders Pep Biel and Jamie Paterson, and youth prospect Idan Toklomati.

Ream joined the starting eleven last Saturday to face his former team, the New York Red Bulls. He received a warm welcome from the crowd with a loud cheer on his first touch. It had been over ten years since Ream had played in an MLS match.

“It was amazing. I’m really, really happy,” said Ream after his first night at Bank of America Stadium. “It really drives home the reason to come here: the fans, the team, the club, and everything the city brings."

The U.S. international delivered a calm and composed presence in defense and nearly scored with a header off a corner kick.

“Tim was steady,” said Head Coach Dean Smith. “You can see his confidence and calm on the ball.”

As Charlotte hunted for a game-winning goal, Biel entered the match. After a speedy visa process, he made it onto the bench with just three days of training. Brought in for his creativity, Biel quickly showcased his technical ability.

“Pep came on and looked really bright on the ball,” praised Smith.

Biel had been signed on deadline day of the MLS window and stepped onto the pitch less than 10 days later.

"My feeling was that it was very nice to be able to play some minutes on Saturday," said Biel.

While Biel is an established player through his career in Europe, Idan Toklomati is emerging as a promising talent. Signed before participating in Israel’s roster at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, Toklomati recently scored in his debut for Crown Legacy FC.

Jamie Paterson has yet to make his debut but joins Charlotte FC following a successful season with Swansea City in England's Championship league. Paterson reunites with coach Dean Smith, whom he credits significantly for his professional development.

“He was my youth team manager... but it was more about what he was like off the pitch as a man,” described Paterson.

Paterson chose Charlotte despite several offers from England due to his desire for a new challenge and reuniting with Smith.

“I’m really pleased because he’s got a really good football brain,” said Smith about reuniting with Paterson after over a decade apart.

Charlotte's recent signings are already making an impact as they integrate into the squad during crucial matches leading up to potential playoff contention.

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