In a surprising turn of events, Charlotte FC has transferred their all-time leading scorer, Karol Świderski, to Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos FC for a reported fee of approximately $2 million. The 28-year-old Polish forward leaves a significant legacy at Charlotte, having netted 32 goals and provided 15 assists over 85 appearances in all competitions.
Świderski's tenure with Charlotte FC began in January 2022 when he was signed from PAOK as the club's inaugural Designated Player. His impact was immediate and profound; in his debut season, he scored 10 goals and contributed six assists, playing a pivotal role in guiding the team to their first playoff appearance. The following year, he continued his stellar form with 12 goals and four assists, cementing his status as a fan favorite and key player.
The 2024 season saw Świderski embark on a loan spell with Italian Serie A side Hellas Verona. During his time in Italy, he made 15 appearances and scored two goals. Upon returning to Charlotte, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting six times in just 10 games, reaffirming his importance to the squad.
Charlotte FC's General Manager, Zoran Krneta, expressed his gratitude for Świderski's contributions, stating, "We are thankful for Karol's dedication and the significant role he played in our club's history. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors." The transfer also opens up a valuable Designated Player slot for Charlotte, providing the club with flexibility to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming season.
As Świderski embarks on this new chapter with Panathinaikos FC, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how his talents translate back into the Greek Super League. His previous stint in Greece with PAOK was marked by success, and many anticipate that he will continue to shine on his return to familiar territory.
