CHARLOTTE, NC (March 12, 2025) – Charlotte Independence announced today defender Pele Ousmanou is joining the team on a season-long loan from USL Championship side Hartford Athletic. The 20-year-old played 45 minutes in Hartford’s 2024 season.
Ousmanou will wear #3 for the Jacks.
“I want to thank Brendan Burke and Hartford Athletic for working with us to bring Pele here. The loan benefits us greatly and allows us to work with a top young prospect,” shared Charlotte Independence Head Coach, Mike Jeffries. “Pele is an exciting player with a tremendous athletic ceiling and powerful defensive qualities. His ability on the ball suits our style of play; in addition, he brings a smile and positive mentality to the group.”
Prior to signing a long-term contract with Hartford before the 2024 season, Ousmanou played with Elite Falcons FC of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Football Association in 2023. Ousmanou appeared in 13 games, playing 1,130 total minutes and scoring one goal.
“I personally am excited to be able to offer the club the best professional service possible to allow the club to win a lot of titles and finish at the top of the podium and I am seriously excited to start the season,” expressed Ousmanou.
Ousmanou was born and raised in Cameroon.
The 2025 USL League One Season begins on Saturday, March 15 for the Jacks as they host long-time rivals Richmond Kickers at American Legion Memorial Stadium. 2025 Season Ticket Deposits are available now for just $25 per seat. This year, the club also introduced a new Lil’ Jacks Kids Season Ticket which includes all 17 home games starting at just $100.
Visit CharlotteIndependence.com/SeasonTickets for more information.
About Charlotte Independence:
The Charlotte Independence is a Division III professional men’s soccer team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The club, founded in 2014, currently competes in USL League One and plays all home games at American Legion Memorial Stadium. As part of the Queen City Soccer Club, our mission is to make Charlotte a better place to live through sports. For information on club news, season tickets and more, visit CharlotteIndependence.com.
