“I'm so happy just to come back training, playing”: Doucouré ready to make his mark as Charlotte FC prepare for Montreal
By Rylee McKinney (@rylees_roster)
Charlotte FC are entering the final stretch of the regular season, and new signing Abdoulaye Doucouré is eager to make an impact as the Crown prepare for their upcoming clash against CF Montreal.
After spending several months without a club following the expiration of his contract with Saudi Arabian side Neom, the former Everton midfielder has found a new opportunity in Charlotte. With the playoffs approaching, Doucouré hopes his experience and versatility can provide a boost to Dean Smith’s squad.
“It was a big challenge for me, big challenge for the club,” Doucouré said of joining Charlotte so late in the season. “I know I can help the team.”
Doucouré Brings Experience and Versatility
Doucouré arrives in Charlotte with more than a decade of experience in English football, having featured for clubs including Watford and Everton. He also played a key role in Everton’s fight to remain in the Premier League, giving him valuable experience in high-pressure situations.
The midfielder believes that experience can translate to Charlotte’s postseason ambitions, particularly as the club looks to make a deep playoff run.
“I can bring my experience,” Doucouré said. “I can bring a voice to the team also, because we need an experienced player.”
The 33-year-old is also comfortable operating in several midfield roles. Whether deployed as a defensive midfielder, a box-to-box presence or in a more advanced position, Doucouré is prepared to adapt to whatever Smith needs.
He said the transition into Smith’s system has been straightforward, with the manager’s familiarity and the team’s tactical setup helping him settle quickly.
Doucouré also praised the professionalism of Charlotte’s veteran players, including Ashley Westwood and Tim Ream, while highlighting the quality already present in the squad.
With the Crown preparing for the postseason, his ability to provide leadership and energy could prove valuable as the team navigates its remaining fixtures.
Building Fitness Ahead of the Playoffs
Despite his experience, Doucouré faces the challenge of returning to full fitness after spending several months training independently.
The midfielder acknowledged that he is still working toward match readiness, with Charlotte’s coaching staff carefully managing his integration into the squad.
“I just want to bring my experience to the team, to bring my energy because I'm just angry to play now,” Doucouré said.
His immediate role may be limited, but the midfielder is determined to make the most of every opportunity. He explained that he wants to give everything whenever he steps onto the pitch, regardless of how many minutes he receives.
That urgency could be particularly important with the regular season nearing its conclusion. Charlotte have little time to integrate their new signing before the intensity of playoff football arrives.
Doucouré, however, is embracing the challenge rather than allowing the circumstances to overwhelm him.
Montreal First, Orlando Next
Charlotte’s immediate focus is on Montreal, with a matchup against Orlando City also looming. Doucouré stressed the importance of approaching each fixture individually rather than looking too far ahead.
In their first meeting this season, Charlotte secured an early-season 2-1 win over Montreal. Montreal has had a difficult season, conceding 62 goals in 31 matches under former Head Coach Marco Donadel and current Interim Philippe Eullaffroy.
The upcoming Orlando match could present another significant challenge, particularly with French international Antoine Griezmann among the players Doucouré discussed during his interview.
The midfielder expressed excitement about potentially facing high-level opposition, but emphasized that Montreal remains the first priority.
For Charlotte, the goal is to finish the regular season strongly and carry momentum into the playoffs. Adding a player with Doucouré’s experience could provide another option in midfield as the stakes increase.
A New Opportunity in Charlotte
Doucouré’s move to Major League Soccer represents a fresh chapter after a difficult period away from competitive football. He admitted that being without a club was unfamiliar territory and sometimes affected his belief, making Charlotte’s offer an important turning point.
“When I received the call from Charlotte, it was just like a light out of darkness for me,” he said.
The midfielder has already expressed an interest in remaining with the club beyond the current season, although he recognizes that his immediate priority is to contribute on the field.
“I just wanted to play,” Doucouré said. “I'm so happy just to come back training, playing.”
As Charlotte prepare for Montreal and the challenges that follow, Doucouré has an opportunity to show what he can offer. Doucouré noted that he is fit for about 15-20 minutes of play and, if given the nod, he could make his Charlotte FC debut. His fitness will determine how quickly he can contribute, but his experience, competitive mentality and willingness to adapt could make him a valuable addition at a crucial point in the season.
