Attacking midfield was a clear need for Charlotte FC in the MLS secondary transfer window and club went out and addressed it by signing 23-year-old Portuguese, Nuno Santos, from Benfica. Yes, the same club that developed world-class players like João Felix, Bernardo Silva, and Ángel Di María.
Santos arrives from European soccer royalty, and it’s safe to say he was molded in one of the best academies in the world. The Portuguese midfielder is a seasoned professional, making 128 appearances between the Portuguese first and second divisions.
Portuguese players are renowned for their maturity and discipline even at young ages and Santos is no different. European Sporting Directors and scouts raved about Santos’s character, including CLTFC’s very own MLS Next Pro head coach, José Tavares, who is all too familiar with his fellow countryman.
On the pitch, Santos brings a unique skillset that hasn’t really been seen at CLTFC. He stands at 5’10 but is much nimbler than one would expect of someone of his stature. His close control of the ball combined with his flair and composure helps him excel in tight spaces and under pressure.
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