Former Norwich City winger Tyger Smalls has been handed his first professional contract by MLS side Charlotte FC, as confirmed via a statement on the club’s website.
The talented winger was recently selected by the MLS side in the first round of the MLS Draft but has now put pen to paper on his first professional contract ahead of the 2024 season.
General manager Zoran Krneta confirmed the news of Small’s and a fellow players’ contracts by stating…
“We’re delighted for both Tyger and Jahlane to sign their first professional contracts after a successful preseason. Both have come in and impressed Dean and the rest of the coaching staff, and they’ll add depth at their respective positions,”
How did he fair in England?
The 21-year-old played for multiple English youth side including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City as well as a stint at Non-League side Felixstowe before making the move to the MLS.
Despite not featuring at a high-level first-team wise, he left the UK back in 2021 after a brief period in the Non-League scene.
This period allowed Smalls to work on his existing qualities whilst maturing at a men’s side, which ultimately helped to lead American side Apache to gamble on him in college football.
Why was this decision taken?
The draft is a common occurrence in the United States and allows players like Smalls to earn the opportunity to compete for some of the nation’s biggest clubs ahead of the 2024 season.
Smalls was selected by Charlotte FC as the 14th overall pick in the first round of the MLS draft, signing a contract until the end of the 2024 season with options to stay for the 2025, 2026 and 2027 seasons.
During his stint in college football, Smalls continued to impress staff with his talents. In 39 matches, the talented winger managed to contribute 22 goals, which is roughly one goal contribution for every two matches.
How will this move benefit Smalls’ development?
The 21-year-old may have signed his first professional contract later than the majority of England-based players but he is surrounded by plenty of experience which will continue to aid his development.
Former Derby County defender Nathan Byrne, Ex Canadian international Scott Arfield and former Burnley midfielder Ashley Westwood are all currently with the MLS side and each will possess the necessary experience to aid Smalls in avoiding some of the mistakes that younger players make and this will in-turn make him a much better footballer.