Charlotte FC makes flurry of end-of-season roster moves

CHARLOTTE — More than a week after Charlotte FC’s season came to an end, the club made a series of moves geared toward their 2023 roster.

The biggest name that may be on the move is defender Christian Fuchs, the club’s captain and team leader. Charlotte FC declined the option of Fuchs and defender Harrison Afful, but said it “remains in discussions regarding the futures of both players.”

Four players -- McKinze Gaines, Derrick Jones, George Marks and Daniel Ríos -- had their options exercised by the club, Charlotte FC announced on Monday.

Rios, the 27-year-old forward from Mexico, came on strong scoring six goals in Charlotte FC’s final five matches and was named the MLS Player of the Week after a four-goal performance against the Philadelphia Union.

Gaines played in 24 matches, including 11 starts, Jones appeared in 16 matches with 10 starts and Marks -- a goalkeeper -- started and played in just one match for the club. Afful played in 21 matches, including 15 starts.

Charlotte FC has until Nov. 14 to make two more roster decisions. Midfielder Quinn McNeill and defender Koa Santos are on loan to the Charlotte Independence during the USL League One playoffs, but will have their contracts picked-up or declined in the next month.

The club is also set to lose midfielder Alan Franco who’s loan from Atletico Mineiro is set to expire.

Charlotte FC’s roster now stands at 26. The full club can be found here.

(WATCH BELOW: Behind the scenes: U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute down to Charlotte FC game)