Charlotte FC is still making waves in the transfer market, and now it has signed an experienced name to strengthen the defense. 28-year-old left-back Souleyman Doumbia joins the club on loan from Standard Liège in Belgium on a deal for the 2025 season. Having appeared more than 200 times for professional teams and at several European clubs, the Ivorian center-back comes with a blockbuster résumé. The squad continues to add to its roster, but if Doumbia is a game-changer or just another roster plug is something to be seen.
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Left-back was one position that needed some beefing up, so Doumbia's signing was welcomed inside. General manager Zoran Krneta mentioned that the player has experience playing in top leagues like Ligue 1 and the Belgian Pro League, and that he has versatility and technical ability. These are prized possessions for a squad that wishes to remain competitive at a high level. That being said, adapting to MLS may be the true litmus test for him to have an impact on the pitch.
Is Doumbia going to be a starter or another depth player?
Considering Charlotte FC's current roster, it's still unknown if Doumbia is joining as an ensured starter or another depth piece. The club already possess Tim Ream, an experienced USMNT regular, who joined last summer and can play on either the left-back or center-back position. If Ream were to be shifted to the center, Doumbia would be able to become the preferred choice on the left-back position. But if Ream is set to stay on the left, then the new signing will have to fight for his place and prove himself worthy of a starting spot.
Consistency is also a key factor. Doumbia has played in a variety of different styles throughout his European career, but he needs to show that he can be a week-in-and-week-out consistent force. His track record to date doesn't place him on the same level as Africa's top players, so his performance early in the games is crucial in determining his true role with Charlotte FC.
Will Doumbia surprise or prove to be another flash-in-the-pan MLS signing?
Charlotte FC's newest signing on paper is logical. Doumbia adds experience and qualities that can strengthen the defense of the team. All signings, however, carry a risk, and the question remains if he will be able to acclimatize to MLS quickly. The club is betting on an experienced player, but he now has to prove that he can be a game-changer.
Fortunately, this is a loan deal, so if it does not pan out, Doumbia will return to his parent club. If he does mesh and thrive, however, he could be a key cog in Charlotte's defense, keeping the club in contention and, perhaps, qualifying him for a contract. Time will tell if this gamble pays off or if Charlotte FC will have to return to the marketplace in search of another solution.