North Texas SC announced the signing of FC Dallas Academy alum defender Ian Charles to a MLS NEXT Pro contract through the 2026-27 NEXT Pro season.
Charles played with North Texas SC in 2025 as an FC Dallas Academy player. He made his professional debut on March 9, 2025, against St Louis CITY2. Charles scored his first professional career goal against Austin FC II on April 11, 2025, and was named the MLS NEXT Rising Star of Matchweek 5 following his goal. In all, Charles recorded 11 appearances and two goals during his first stint with the club.
He then spent the second half of 2025 with UCLA where he made two appearances for the Bruins. He made his collegiate debut on Aug. 21, 2025, against UC Irvine.
Charles joined the FC Dallas Academy from D.C. United in the 2022-23 season as a U-16. With the Academy, he participated in GA Cup as well as Liga MX Internacional in 2023 and 2024.
Internationally, Charles represents Puerto Rico. He made six appearances and scored one goal for Puerto Rico in the 2023 CONCACAF U-17 Championship.
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Quick BDS Take
I’m a fan of this signing for NTSC. Charles was on my FCD college players to watch short list last season. While he didn’t make an impact with UCLA, he does already have solid MLSNP experience with North Texas SC.
I wouldn’t be shocked if Charles is on a bit of a hybrid deal, too. One that could eventually work him into a Homegrown contract with the first team if things progress well in 2026.
