The news that captain Ashley Westwood of Charlotte FC signed a new contract through 2026, with an option to extend until 2027, is one milestone that has set him as lock and key in the club, reflecting his influence on and off the pitch. At 34, with a career path including top English clubs such as Burnley and Aston Villa, he comes into the MLS with invaluable experience he will feature, not just for his skill but also for his qualities as a leader.
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Westwood's rebirth at Charlotte FC
When Westwood joined Charlotte FC in January 2023, he had still been recovering from the serious injury that had eventually put his career into jeopardy. But he found new life in the city and the club. Westwood himself has made sure to say that the move to MLS marked a fresh start, a second chance. "Life in Charlotte has been an incredible experience. [.] It's been a breath of fresh air that's really revitalized my career," said the captain. This revitalization wasn't only physical but also emotional and mental.
It wasn't just a new home the midfielder found in Charlotte FC, but also one in which he could once again become a key figure. Since then, he has become one of the cornerstones of the club's tactical setup and the responsibility that this entails of leading a team in growth in MLS. Westwood is the right mix between experience from a veteran player and hunger from a player who still has much to offer.
Impact
Not only is he a technical and skilled player, but he is a true leader: 65 appearances across all competitions with five goals and nine assists for Charlotte FC. The numbers alone justify his importance in this side, though his contribution goes far beyond statistics, considering he plays a more defensive midfield role.
His control in midfield, setting the rhythm of the game, and organizing the team is vital. The Englishman not only provides stability in central areas but also gives vision and decisive passes, like that outstanding performance with three assists in the big win over FC Cincinnati. No wonder Westwood was MLS Player of the Day on that occasion, which justifies his importance to the squad.
But then again, Westwood had impacts other than just on the pitch. Off the field, he has also been an ambassador for the club, a mentor to the younger players, and a voice of leadership in the locker room. The general manager of Charlotte FC, Zoran Krneta, commented on how important he feels the captain is: "He's the perfect embodiment of what it means to be a Charlotte FC player." This sort of leadership is just what an emerging club needs if it doesn't only seek to establish itself in the MLS but also wants to reach new heights by winning its first trophy.
And the future?
With this contract extension to 2026, Charlotte FC has indicated that they view their captain as an integral part of the future within the team. The option to further extend it into 2027 shows belief from the club in Westwood's longevity and capabilities to maintain a high level even with advanced age.
It's become apparent that Westwood, especially in his first season where he played 30 games and cemented the club's place in the MLS Cup Playoffs, still has a lot left in the tank. His wonderful goal against the Chicago Fire was one of those moments which earned them that much-wanted playoff spot. Moments like these that call for decisive leadership separate the good from the great, and Westwood has proved to be in the latter.