Charlotte FC Coach Christian Lattanzio signs extension through 2024

CHARLOTTE — Christian Lattanzio, the head coach for Charlotte FC, has extended his contract through the 2024 season with an option for 2025, the team announced.

Lattanzio signed the extension on Wednesday.

“I’ve said many times that Charlotte FC is a special place, not only in Major League Soccer, but around the world of football. I’m excited to sign an extension here in Charlotte as we continue to build our culture and identity,” Lattanzio said. “I’m honored to be the head coach of Charlotte FC and know everyone at this football club is aligned and prepared to move forward into 2023 as we improve on the foundation we have built together this season.”

Charlotte FC also extended the contracts of Sporting Director Zoran Krneta and other front office personnel.

Lattanzio took over midseason after the club fired former coach Miguel Ángel Ramírez. In his stint as head coach, Lattanzio has had a 8-10-2 record, which included a win against New York City FC that made Charlotte the first expansion team in the modern era to sweep the defending MLS Cup Champions.

“Christian did an excellent job navigating a challenging time for our Club through the second half of the season and we’re delighted to keep him at Charlotte FC,” Krneta said. “Having consistency from one season to the next is a proven model of success in Major League Soccer, and this extension, along with the options we exercised earlier this month, ensures the core of the team stays intact. Inking Christian to a long-term deal was paramount in our offseason plan to continue building a sustainable football club that is ready to take the next step in 2023 and beyond.”

Team owner David Tepper said he’s looking forward to the club having more time with Lattanzio as coach.

“Our inaugural season is one everyone across the Carolinas should be proud of and proved what all of us here knew all along: Major League Soccer belongs in Charlotte,” Tepper said. “The results down the stretch were extremely promising and we’re excited to have Christian build upon the positive momentum we had at the end of the season. Everyone here is committed to improving our squad and is aligned to build a winning organization.”

The club is in its offseason currently. The MLS SuperDraft, which is presented by adidas, will be Dec. 21.

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