USL1 Charlotte Independence

Charlotte Independence Announce First Four Signings for 2024 Season

Published on December 4, 2023 under 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 that this coming year we can achieve what we so desire as a team, which is the championship. I am very grateful for the support of our fans continuing into this next year."

Matt Levy (GK)

After joining the Independence on a short-term contract in August 2023, Levy proved himself on the training ground and earned an extension for the remainder of the 2023 campaign. Levy returns for Charlotte, the club who gave him his first professional contract, for 2024.

"I'm very thankful to God and the staff for allowing me the opportunity to come back for next season," Levy expressed. "Last year was an amazing year with the guys, and everyone that was a part of the experience wants to recreate last year's success and to improve on it. We have the staff and players to do so. With the continued support of the fans and a collective group mentality anything is possible, and we will not only make it back to the finals but win the championship and bring a trophy to Charlotte."

Season tickets for the Charlotte Independence 10th Anniversary season are on sale now with ticket packages as low as $5 per game. To see all exclusive Season Ticket Member benefits and purchase your tickets today, visit charlotteindependence.com/seasontickets.

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