CHARLOTTE – Recently acquired center back, Christian Makoun, just arrived in Charlotte amid a winter storm. It was quite a change of scenery from the Miami sun and palm trees that had been his home since the beginning of 2020.
“I told my girlfriend that I’m really happy and blessed to be at Charlotte. They told me it doesn’t snow much in the city, but we were welcomed beautifully with the snow,” said Makoun, almost describing the snow as a divine sign.
Of the five central defenders Charlotte FC currently has on the roster, Makoun is one of two who has MLS experience. That experience came by way of playing for a recent expansion team, Inter Miami.
In recent years, Major League Soccer has become a hotspot for young South American talent. Makoun is just that, an exciting 21-year-old Venezuelan prospect who came to MLS to develop and showcase his ability to a bigger audience.
“[MLS] isn’t a retirement destination as it used to be. Today, young players are coming to the league. We see MLS export several players to Europe on a consistent basis. MLS has taken great strides and only continues to grow and improve.
“I think the people who critique the league don’t know football. It’s a league that is very competitive and intense. You as a player want to find a league that can challenge you and MLS is that.”
Makoun is familiar with the league, but more significantly, this isn’t his first rodeo playing for an expansion team in their inaugural season.
“Being a part of an expansion team is very special because very few players get that opportunity. This is my second time, the first time being in Miami. It’s a responsibility that I take pride in and an experience that I am very excited to be a part of.”
While being a part of an expansion team is an experience that Makoun cherishes, he knows firsthand the challenges that come with it.
“It’s not easy... us as players have to get to know each other, the coaching staff, the playing style, the city, all within a very short time. You also have so many other great teams in MLS that have established structures that we have to compete against.”
Despite knowing the challenges, Makoun feels he is in the right place and is anxious to get started.
“[Charlotte FC Head Coach] Ramírez demonstrated belief in me, and as a player, all you want is to be a part of a team that wants you
“I’m very happy to be here, with the little bit I’ve been able to talk to my teammates, I already feel really good here. I’m just so ready to start training and to get the season started”
