North Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing both local and international young talent, with their latest Crown Legacy signing as a clear testament to this strategy. Idan Toklomati, a highly rated prospect who traveled with the Israeli National team to the 2024 Paris Olympics, has chosen Charlotte as the place to further his development.

According to CLTFC's Director of Scouting, Thomas Schaling, Toklomati is a target they have actively tracked for years. The Club first attempted to sign the Israeli as a Crown Legacy player back in November 2022 and has kept up their interest since then.

Earlier this week, Schaling provided more insight into this young attacker whose growth potential excites the Club's sporting leadership.

In today’s global soccer scene, some of the most lethal attackers are those who can seamlessly operate both as wingers and strikers. While Toklomati still has a way to go in terms of his development, he embodies that rare hybrid profile. Standing at 5'10", he combines the strength and physicality of a striker with the creativity and playmaking ability of a winger.

“If you look at the top players around the world that can play well on the wing and at striker, there's only a few,” said Schaling. “There's not that many, even at the top level, that are a good example of this hybrid profile."

“We feel that having him as a versatile attacking prospect that can play both positions right now is very interesting to have at our Club.”

As a hybrid player, Toklomati’s skillset is diverse. His game features a mix of speed and directness, making him well-suited for various positions in attack. Additionally, he possesses sharp intelligence in his movement, especially in and around the box—an instinct typically seen in top strikers.

“Idan has some trickery to him in addition to the capability to accelerate with and without the ball. He can run into space without the ball, and he has the ability to quickly free up the ball for a shot,” described Schaling. “He's also smart in his ability to link up with others and can play with his back to goal. That's where the striker element comes in as well."

“We saw him as a player that is dangerous in and around the box with his sharp movement and decision-making. A lot of his best moments are coming running onto things at the right moment or cutting inside and shooting.”

While it remains uncertain where Toklomati will primarily play long-term, his versatility significantly enhances his prospects of earning playing time, whether with the first team or Crown Legacy.

At just 19 years old, Toklomati’s signing reflects Charlotte FC’s belief not only in his potential but also in its vision of becoming a hub where fine young talent can thrive. CLTFC Head Coach Dean Smith has played a role in this vision by consistently giving young players opportunities. Under his guidance, players like Nimfasha Berchimas (16), Tyger Smalls (21), Nick Scardina (23), Nikola Petkovic (21), and João Pedro (21) have all made their MLS debuts.

“This transfer once more shows the willingness of ownership to invest in the future of the club,” said Schaling. “It also shows that Dean (Smith) is willing to work with young players and be part of their development."

“Dean and the front office are aligned in wanting to build something sustainable for the future. It is up to us as a club to nurture Idan’s talent and get him ready to contribute to the first team on a weekly basis. Everyone at the Club looks forward to having him in our environment.”

In signing Idan Toklomati, Charlotte FC not only secures promising talent but also reinforces its commitment to building a future around young versatile players. Toklomati’s unique skillset makes him valuable asset who could play key role in Club's ambitions both now and years come.

With clear focus on youth development Charlotte FC leveraged Crown Legacy position themselves destination emerging talents flourish ensuring bright future Club supporters As Toklomati continues grow within environment journey one watch closely