CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte FC's search for a new head coach is over, as the club announced the hiring of English Premier League veteran Dean smith.
Smith, 52, is a former English footballer who has managed multiple levels of the English system, including Leicester City, Norwich City and Aston Villa. His overall managerial record is 213 wins, 174 draws and 218 losses.
“I’m honored to be appointed as the next head coach of Charlotte FC and cannot wait to start preparations for the 2024 season,” Smith said. “Throughout the interview process, it was clear that this is an ambitious club with the right ingredients for success and I’m delighted to begin a new chapter in Charlotte. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a project with so much potential to take to new heights in Major League Soccer. I’d like to thank Mr. Tepper, Zoran, Joe and the rest of the Charlotte FC leadership for entrusting me to lead this team and I look forward to meeting everyone involved with Charlotte FC.”
He left Leicester City in June after the club was relegated to the EFL Championship. Smith was among four reported finalists for the job, including Frank Lampard, Freddy Juarez and Robin Fraser.
As a player, Smith made over 500 appearances in what is now known as the Championship League One and League Two during his 16-year professional career.
“We’re excited to welcome Dean and his family to Charlotte to become the next head coach of Charlotte FC,” Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said. "We’re confident his leadership and experience will help elevate our club beyond its first playoff appearance into a championship team."
Tepper fired Christian Lattanzio in early November after the team was eliminated from the MLS playoffs. He finished with an overall record of 22 wins, 17 draws and 24 losses as Charlotte FC's manager.
Charlotte FC will enter its third season with its third full-time manager next season.