20-year-old center back joins CLTFC from French club Rodez AF
CHARLOTTE, NC (Thursday, August 4, 2022) – Charlotte FC today announced the Club has signed defender Adilson Malanda from French club Rodez AF to a contract through 2025 with an option for 2026. The move is pending receipt of a P-1 visa and ITC.
The 20-year-old defender will occupy an international roster slot on the Club’s 2022 roster.
Malanda, who joined Rodez in 2021 played 33 times in Ligue 2 during his debut season. He also began the 2022/23 campaign helping the French side keep a clean sheet against Quevilly Rouen last weekend.
“Adilson is an exciting, young central defender who comes to us after an excellent first full season as a professional in France. We’re delighted to sign him and strengthen the spine of our team,” said Sporting Director Zoran Krneta. “He’s a balanced player that fits our game model as he blends athleticism with quality and comfortability on the ball when playing out of the back. Part of our strategy in the summer window is not only bringing in competitive depth to help us as the season winds down, but to also add more building blocks that sets our squad up for success down the road. We believe Adilson has the potential to develop into an important player for us in the years ahead.”
The Frenchman began his career with Nîmes and made his senior debut in Ligue 1 in December 2020 against Dijon.
Transaction: Charlotte FC acquire defender Adilson Malanda on a permanent transfer from Rodez AF
Name: Adilson Malanda
Position: Defender
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 165 lbs
Date of Birth: October 9, 2001
Age: 20
Birthplace: Rouen, France
Last Club: Rodez AF
How Acquired: Permanent transfer from Rodez AF
