North Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC has announced that goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina has signed a new contract with the club, extending his stay through 2026 with an option for 2027.

“I am glad to be continuing in Charlotte’s jersey and that I will have the privilege of enjoying the support of our loyal fans for the years to come,” said Kahlina. “I am extremely happy that our results show that both Charlotte FC and I are improving from season to season. This moment brings new obligations and responsibilities for the following seasons to achieve the result we desire, which is the title of MLS champion!”

Kahlina has recorded ten clean sheets this season, marking a career high in Major League Soccer (MLS). He is currently fourth in the league in saves with 113 and holds the second-longest shutout streak of the year at 524 minutes.

He joins Nathan Byrne, Adilson Malanda, and Andrew Privett as recent members of Charlotte FC's defense to sign new contracts.

“Kristijan has been exceptional since he joined the Club ahead of our inaugural season and has since established himself as one of the elite goalkeepers in Major League Soccer,” said Zoran Krneta. “He is a fierce competitor who wants to push for trophies and has proven time and time again that he can be a match-winner in net. Kristijan is another defensive piece that we have extended for multiple seasons, and we’re delighted for him to continue his career in Charlotte as we continue to build a Club aimed towards winning MLS Cup.”

Since joining Charlotte FC, Kahlina has played 97 matches across all competitions, keeping 25 clean sheets. In three MLS seasons, he has made 289 saves, ranking him fourth among league goalkeepers since 2022. He also ranks tied for eighth in clean sheets over this period.

Kahlina originally joined Charlotte FC from Bulgarian champions Ludogorets after spending much of his career with HNK Gorica in Croatia.

Transaction: Charlotte FC signs goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina to a contract until 2026 with an option for 2027.