CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Liel Abada has proven to be a positive signing for Charlotte FC, racking up 4 goals and 2 assists in just 15 matches.
But the best should still be yet to come for the 22-year-old, who has thrilled supporters with his speed and skill with the ball.
"I feel really good," Abada said. "I feel home here. I get so much support from the fans."
Abada says his first year in Major League Soccer and life in the United States have been a big adjustment, both on and off the pitch.
"Everything is big," he said. "For example, at a restaurant, you get big food. Everything is big."
There's something even bigger happening for Abada this summer. He's going to the Olympics after being called up to Israel's national team.
"It's a dream for me," he said. "I'm really excited for that."
Abada thanks Charlotte FC and its supporters for allowing him to take the opportunity. Support is something Abada might have lacked at his last stop, playing for Scottish side, Celtic. An Israeli football executive called Abada's treatment "disgusting," due to his nationality.
“It was a tough year for me last season," Abada said. "It was not easy for me, but now I feel stronger mentally. I feel so much support from everyone (in Charlotte)."
For now, Abada's football future remains in Charlotte, but for the next few weeks, he's focused on Paris and is passionate about representing his native country.
"We want to do the best in the Olympics for the people in our country," Abada said. "Especially in this time with the war and everything. It's something special for Israel right now."
Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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