CHARLOTTE (CHARLOTTE SPORTS LIVE) — One of the best goalkeepers in the MLS is staying in The Fortress for a few more years.
Kristijan Kahlina has signed a new contract through 2026 with a player option for 2027, Charlotte FC announced on Tuesday.
Kahlina is tied for the league lead with ten clean sheets, an MLS career best for him, and fourth in total saves (113).
“I am glad to be continuing in Charlotte’s jersey and that I will have the privilege of enjoying the support of our loyal fans for the years to come,” said Kahlina. “I am extremely happy that our results show that both Charlotte FC and I are improving from season to season. This moment brings new obligations and responsibilities for the following seasons to achieve the result we desire, which is the title of MLS champion!”
Charlotte FC noted that Kahlina is the fourth member of the defense to sign a new contract, along with Nathan Byrne, Adilson Malanda, and Andrew Privett. Captain Ashely Westwood also signed a contract extension.
“Kristijan has been exceptional since he joined the Club ahead of our inaugural season and has since established himself as one of the elite goalkeepers in Major League Soccer,” General Manager Zoran Krneta said. “He is a fierce competitor who wants to push for trophies and has proven time and time again that he can be a match-winner in net. Kristijan is another defensive piece that we have extended for multiple seasons, and we’re delighted for him to continue his career in Charlotte as we continue to build a Club aimed towards winning the MLS Cup.”
Since the start of the 2022 season, Kahlina has racked up the fourth-most saves (289) and the eighth-most clean sheets.