CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC today announced it has signed midfielder Michael “Mikey” Maldonado for the 2023 USL League One season. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

The 24-year-old joins from USL League One side Forward Madison FC, where he spent the 2022 season making 28 appearances, primarily as a defender. Maldonado was named to the 2022 USL League One All-League Second Team after scoring two goals and tacking on four assists from a team-high 45 chances created. Additionally, he had 26 interceptions, 34 clearances, 10 blocks, and won 29 of 48 tackles and 145 of 289 duels.

“I am very excited to bring Mikey to North Carolina FC for the upcoming 2023 season,” said Head Coach John Bradford. "He is a quality player who competes with passion and intensity on both sides of the ball. Mikey has the versatility to play in the midfield or in the back and will be a great addition to our group. I’m very much looking forward to working with him."

A native of San Antonio, Texas, Maldonado was a part of the San Antonio Surf SC youth academy before joining UPSL side San Antonio Runners SC in 2019. In 2021 he attended North Texas SC’s open tryout, which led to an invitation to the team’s training camp and a professional contract. Maldonado made 26 appearances in the 2021 season with North Texas SC, before signing with Forward Madison prior to the 2022 season.

Maldonado’s arrival brings the NCFC roster to 21 players. He becomes the fifth midfielder on the roster, joining Luis Arriaga, Pecka, Jaden Servania and Raheem Somersall.