Charlotte FC defender Nathan Byrne signed a contract extension through the 2026 season on Wednesday.

Financial terms were not disclosed by Charlotte, which holds a team option on the deal for 2027.

“Nate has been a core part of our defensive line from the moment he arrived in Charlotte, and we’re excited he has chosen to commit his future to the club,” general manager Zoran Krneta said in a statement.

“He has established himself as one of the best at his position in the league and has been an integral part of our stellar defensive record this season. He is the third member of our defense that we have signed to a long-term deal this season as we continue to set our club up for sustained success for seasons to come.”

Byrne, 32, has one assist in 27 matches this season and two in 63 career matches (59 starts) since he signed with Charlotte in August 2022.

“I’m delighted to sign a new contract that keeps me at the club for the next few seasons,” Byrne, from England, said. “Charlotte is a place I have really enjoyed my football over the last two years, and there is no place I’d rather continue my career. We have a great group of guys that want to accomplish something special, and that begins now with this run-in to the playoffs.”

–Field Level Media