Páez to bring top-level experience after competing in Spain and Venezuela’s First Division.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 18, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have signed Venezuelan midfielder Ayrton Páez. Páez joins the Jacks after playing three seasons with Estudiantes de Mérida, a professional fútbol club in the Venezuelan League, who in 2019 earned a Runner Up title in the Primera Division.
“We are excited to bring Ayrton to Charlotte,” explained Charlotte Independence Head Coach and General Manager, Mike Jeffries. “I expect him to continue the tradition of strong two way midfielders with the Independence. Ayrton is clever and composed in possession, with the ability to make plays in the final third. In addition, Ayrton will provide leadership to our group with the experience of playing in Spain and First Division Venezuela.”
During his time at Estudiantes de Mérida, Páez recorded 2,208 minutes in 49 appearances and scored six goals.
Páez spent a short stint with Monaga at the start of 2018, a Venezuelan professional fútbol team who competes at the top level, Primera División Venezolana. Later that year, he signed with Spanish fourth division team, Loja. There he tallied an impressive 2,508 minutes in 31 appearances and scored six goals.
“Personally, I’m very happy to join the Charlotte Independence because I know the good fútbol it develops,” stated Páez. “Charlotte Independence is a great team where I know that I will be able to achieve important things at the group and individual levels. When the opportunity came, I had no doubts about joining the team. I’m eager to put all my fútbol at the service of the team, and I want to aim as high as possible and that is to win the championship.”
Early in his career, Páez competed for a number of Spanish fútbol clubs including: Mallorca (2014-2015), Atletico Malagueno (2015-2016), Sabadell (2016), Numancia B (2017) and Atarfe Industrial (2017-2018).
“Mike continues to assemble an exciting roster,” explained Charlotte Independence President & COO, Tim Schuldt. “With some seasoned returning players and an infusion of very talented new players like Ayrton Páez, we’re excited for our fans and the entertaining brand of soccer the Independence will play this year at American Legion Memorial Stadium!”
The Charlotte Independence are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Friday, April 8 at 7:00 PM (ET). The Jacks will host Central Valley Fuego FC at American Legion Memorial Stadium. To view the full schedule and purchase your season tickets, please visit charlotteindependence.com/uslleagueoneschedule.
