After a year of ups and downs, unexpected trades, and questionable play, Charlotte FC is picking up a player who could have a major goal-scoring impact. The crown is picking up Archie Goodwin, an Australian who previously played for A-League team Adelaide United. His time with Adelaide saw him win a Golden Boot after a series of impressive showings. His goal-scoring ability could be what Charlotte needs to move toward the playoffs.
One of the main concerns from fans when Charlotte makes a trade is the age of the player. Club manager Zoran Krneta is known for picking up players closer to the end of their career, arguing their experience pays off. Instead of relying on experience, Krneta appears to be focusing on age and results.
“His awareness within the box, willingness to run and attack spaces are a few of the top qualities we saw that made us want to pursue him”
Zoran Krneta, General Manager
Goodwin was raised to become a player in the A-League. He started off playing with Newcastle Jets FC Youth team in 2020, moving in to play with the professional team that same year. He was traded to Adelaide last season, where he scored 13 goals in the 26 appearances he made. That’s also when he won the Golden Boot, as the leading goal scorer in the league.
Charlotte’s previously stacked frontline is missing a piece after sending Patrick Agyemang to Derby County. Idan Toklomati, Wilfred Zaha, and Kerwin Vargas have helped fill in that hole, but none of them are true strikers. While Zaha is a known forward, he’s been put in a more wing position alongside Vargas and Toklomati. Goodwin would be a good addition, most notably with Toklomati. Both forwards are young, and their speed would be a major ally if they’re able to work side-by-side.
Goodwin is also joining Harry Toffolo as the newest Charlotte signee. While Toffolo is meant to serve on the backline, he’s considered an attacking defender. That will allow a more diverse style of play, especially because Charlotte is known for having their strikers play from the back of the pitch. They’ll both be solid presences throughout the field when they make their debuts with the team.
The summer transfer window has been good for Charlotte. While it seemed like the club was making a horrible decision by letting go of Agyemang, all concern about his empty spot seems to have been forgotten. Players like Goodwin are exactly what the team needs to get in fighting form. He’s also a great addition beside Zaha, since both players’ aggressive style will complement each other on the pitch. That’s something the club needs if they want an actual chance at making the playoffs and moving forward past the first round.
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