Charlotte FC brings back Pep Biel in a surprising move for their 2025 MLS campaign | OneFootball

The loan deal that Charlotte FC announced-the return of Pep Biel from Olympiacos until August 1-managed to surprise the market. Now, a Spanish midfielder aged 28 years old will be back into the team, considering his last season in the club was short and touching, at different circumstances, since he does not occupy a slot of a Designated Player.

His first spell at Charlotte saw Biel score 2 goals and make 3 assists in 11 games, bringing some technical quality into the midfield, while also possessing versatility for the offensive lineup-an aspect the General Manager Zoran Krneta did point out.

“We wanted Pep to return to the club in 2025, and we’re happy to finalize a loan deal that brings him back to Charlotte, where he played a key role last season”, Krneta stated. This underscores that the club values Biel’s talent and sees him as someone capable of making a difference when it matters most.

What changes in Biel’s return?

Unlike his first stint, Biel will not be occupying a Designated Player spot this time around, thus giving more flexibility to Charlotte in adjusting other areas of the roster. While that might seem subtle, it's a strategic move in a league like MLS, where managing the salary cap is a significant challenge. Bringing the Spanish midfielder back under this new contract format shows Charlotte's clear intention to maximize Biel's impact without straining financial resources over the long term.

Krneta further stressed that it will be of great importance for Biel to have a full preseason with head coach Dean Smith and the rest of the squad. That could make a big difference for a player who arrived mid-competition last season and had to adapt in the shortest time possible. Having more time to integrate into the team and absorb the coach's tactics, Biel could elevate his performance to an even higher level.

Biel's fit in Dean Smith's system

Under Dean Smith, Charlotte FC wants to develop its style of play, oriented to an offense and dynamic one; the coach also seems very excited about Biel's return. According to Krneta, the coach is ready to see him back on the pitch and believes he might be a cornerstone in midfield in 2025.

With the season-opener against perennially difficult Seattle Sounders on February 22, Charlotte will be relying on players like Biel to spearhead the side from the first match. Impact in 2025: The 2025 season is going to be an inflection point for Charlotte FC on the field of play. Having earned a playoff place last year, the club now has to show it can deliver consistency and battle for more.

Not all is rosy, though, as there are challenges accompanying Biel's return. The Spanish midfielder will have to get used to the MLS pace in no time and show he can put on consistent performances throughout the season. There is also the fact that the loan will expire in August, and the club might have to find his replacement in the middle of the season if they decide not to extend the deal.