North Charlotte Today

Crown Legacy FC today announced the signing of midfielder Aron John from the Charlotte FC Academy. John, referred to as “AJ” by his teammates and coaches, has secured a future Homegrown contract with Charlotte FC.

“AJ’s dedication to his craft and relentless work ethic since his first day in the Academy has made him so deserving of his first professional contract,” said Charlotte FC Assistant General Manager Bobby Belair. “At just 18 years old, he has been one of the top players in MLS NEXT Pro and a great example of our commitment to player development. We’re pleased to continue to work with AJ and give him the time he needs to reach his full potential.”

John, 18, is currently having a breakout season with Crown Legacy FC. He is tied for second in all of MLS NEXT Pro for goal contributions with 12. The midfielder leads the Club in both goals and assists, seven and five respectively, in just 13 matches this season.

“I am very honored to have Crown Legacy and the rest of the Charlotte FC organization trust me with this contract and opportunity,” said John. “I am extremely grateful to my academy and Crown Legacy coaches for helping me in my continued development. I am excited to continue my growth in hopes to make my mark on the first team.”

A native of Charlotte, John joined the Charlotte FC Academy at age 16 and made an immediate impact, earning the first-ever Academy Player of the Year award. The box-to-box midfielder provided six goals and six assists during the 2022-23 MLS NEXT season.

John is the second player from the Charlotte FC Academy to earn an MLS NEXT Pro contract; Erik Peña was the first when he signed his professional contract with Crown Legacy FC in December 2023.

Transaction: Crown Legacy FC signs Aron John to an MLS NEXT Pro Contract

Name: Aron John

Position: Midfielder

Height: 5’8”

Weight: 155 lbs

Date of Birth: April 3, 2006

Age: 18

Hometown: Charlotte, NC

Last Club: Charlotte FC Academy

How Acquired: Signed to MLS NEXT Pro Contract