Iuri Tavares Charlotte FC Forward Analysis and Performance Review

Folks, let’s talk about Iuri Tavares—a name Charlotte FC fans have gotten to know in a hurry. This young forward burst onto the scene after stepping up from Crown Legacy FC.

He joined the first team in early 2024 and—get this—he immediately put his stamp on things. Three goals and an assist in his first 28 MLS matches (Tavares’ player profile). At just 22, Tavares brings a ton of energy and a bit of that international flair, thanks to his time with Estoril Praia in Portugal.

Fans have really noticed how he finds space in the box and creates chances, whether starting or coming off the bench. He’s added a new dimension to Charlotte’s attack this year.

With a contract running through 2026, you can bet Tavares will be a big part of the club’s plans (signing announcement).

Season	Team	Appearances	Starts	Goals	Assists
2024	Charlotte FC	28	8	3	1

Who Is Iuri Tavares?

Iuri Tavares plays forward for Charlotte FC, and he’s got a bit of an international resume. He’s known for his technical ability and that striker’s instinct.

He’s a unique figure in this squad, blending European roots with Cape Verdean heritage.

Personal Background

Iuri António Teixeira Tavares was born on March 8, 2001, in Lisbon, Portugal. As of June 2025, he’s 24 years old.

Though born in Portugal, he holds Cape Verdean citizenship through his family. That dual background shows up both on and off the field.

Tavares started his youth career in Portugal and caught attention for his versatility and nose for goal. He signed with Charlotte FC in MLS, locking in a contract through 2026 (with an option for 2027).

He fills an international slot on the roster. His journey mixes European training and Cape Verdean influence—pretty cool, right?

Player Profile Table

Name	Iuri António Teixeira Tavares
Date of Birth	March 8, 2001
Place of Birth	Lisbon, Portugal
Nationalities	Portuguese, Cape Verdean
Position	Forward
Club	Charlotte FC
Age (June 2025)	24

Cape Verde International Career

Even though he grew up in Portugal, Tavares chose to play for Cape Verde internationally. That decision reflects his family roots and a real commitment to the national team.

Cape Verde keeps raising its soccer profile, and Tavares is one of the young talents pushing that rise.

He’s gotten called up to the Cape Verde squad and played in various competitions. That experience gives Charlotte a guy who knows both European and African styles of play.

Tavares keeps building his international resume with each appearance. Every call-up is another step as he tries to become a regular for Cape Verde.

His club form definitely impacts his national team chances. He’s a name to watch among Cape Verde internationals.

Early Life in Portugal

Tavares grew up in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. He started playing soccer young, joining the youth setups at big clubs like SL Benfica and CF Belenenses.

Those academies focus on technical skills and tactics, which shaped him as a forward. In his youth, he built solid ball control, smart movement, and a knack for finishing.

Playing with talented teammates and under quality coaches pushed him to get better. Portugal lives and breathes football, and that passion drove him toward the pro game.

His upbringing in Portugal, mixed with Cape Verdean family ties, gave him a unique style. That blend helped him move from local Lisbon leagues to international and club football.

Want more details? Check out his Wikipedia profile or his Transfermarkt page.

Charlotte FC Career

Iuri Tavares didn’t waste time making his mark with Charlotte FC. He jumped up from MLS NEXT Pro and made an impression right away.

Charlotte’s leadership, with Dean Smith as head coach and Zoran Krneta as GM, clearly values young talent. Tavares fits that mold.

Joining Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC first signed Tavares to Crown Legacy FC, their MLS NEXT Pro team, at the start of 2023. Before that, he played for Estoril Praia in Portugal after coming through Benfica’s academy.

His early games with Crown Legacy really stood out. The club saw his scoring touch, energy, and maturity in the attack.

Those traits made him an obvious pick for a first-team promotion, especially with Charlotte looking to add depth for the 2024 MLS season.

MLS Contract

On February 20, 2024, Charlotte FC signed Tavares to an MLS contract running through 2026, with a club option for 2027. That move locked him in as a First Team player.

Tavares’s contract shows Charlotte’s commitment to developing and keeping young international talent. GM Zoran Krneta made it clear they expect Tavares to contribute in the Eastern Conference—now and in the future.

Key Contract Details:

Start Date	Contract Length	Club Option	Position
Feb 20, 2024	Through 2026	2027	Forward

Debut and Notable Appearances

Tavares made his first-team debut soon after signing for Charlotte FC in 2024. He’s mostly come off the bench, bringing energy and spark to the attack as the club battles in a busy Eastern Conference schedule.

He’s shown he can play across the front line and adapt to what Dean Smith asks of him. Both fans and club staff have noticed his work rate and confidence in big moments.

Even though he’s just getting started, Tavares looks ready for MLS action and eager to help Charlotte FC chase their goals.

Player Profile and Main Position

Iuri Tavares has shown he’s a real threat in the attack for Charlotte FC. His game is all about speed, control, and taking on defenders—no matter where he pops up.

Role as Forward

Tavares mainly lines up as a forward, but he’s most effective out on the left. In 2024, he made 28 appearances for Charlotte, starting eight times.

He chipped in three goals and one assist, often making things happen even when coming off the bench.

He presses high, using his pace and quick decisions to hassle defenders. Tavares loves to run in behind or cut inside from wide spots.

His movement opens up space for teammates, and he’s not afraid to track back when needed. That balance up front has really helped Charlotte’s attack.

Check out his latest stats and features on the Charlotte FC official profile.

Main Position and Versatility

Tavares usually plays left wing, but he’s trained as a centre-forward too. That versatility gives coaches plenty of options.

His time at Benfica and Belenenses sharpened his tactical sense for both the wing and central roles.

At Charlotte, coaches mostly use him on the left, where his strong left foot lets him whip in crosses and take on defenders one-on-one.

He can shift to centre-forward if needed, adding depth up top. For more on his playing history and flexibility, see his Transfermarkt profile.

Position Table:

Season	Club	Main Position	Other Positions
2024	Charlotte FC	Left Winger	Centre-Forward
Past	Benfica/Belenenses	Left Winger	Centre-Forward, Attacking Midfield

Physical Attributes

Tavares stands at 1.87 meters—about 6’2″. That size, combined with his agility, makes him a handful for defenders.

He’s left-footed, which fits perfectly with his left-sided role. That gives him the edge to cut in or deliver dangerous balls into the box.

His physical style shows in his strong running and ability to keep possession under pressure. He’s both a target in the air and a wide threat who can stretch defenses.

For the latest stats, including physical data, check his MLS profile.

Performance and Statistics

Iuri Tavares has made a real impact for Charlotte FC, mixing scoring, playmaking, and technical skill. His numbers show just how valuable he’s been in the attacking third and the buildup.

Goal-Scoring Record

Tavares’s goal record tells the story. In the 2024 MLS regular season, he made 28 appearances, starting eight times.

He scored three goals, making the most of his chances despite not always starting.

Here’s a quick look at his 2024 goal stats for Charlotte FC:

Competition	Appearances	Starts	Goals
MLS Regular	28	8	3

He’s not always the main target up front, but he’s come through with goals when it matters. That kind of reliability is huge over a long season.

You can find more on his stats at the Charlotte FC official site.

Assists and Contributions

Tavares contributes more than just goals. He’s added one assist for Charlotte in 2024.

That number might not jump off the page, but his off-ball movement and ability to pull defenders out of position really open things up for teammates.

He links play well, connecting midfield and attack. His runs and pressing force defenders to make quick choices.

Even if the assist numbers are low, his overall impact is felt throughout the team. Every touch in the final third adds a spark to Charlotte’s attack.

For more detailed stats, check Transfermarkt.

Technical Ability

Tavares brings a pretty well-rounded technical skill set to the pitch. He lines up both as a center forward and as a left winger—talk about flexibility. You’ll often see him comfortable receiving the ball with his back to goal, linking play, or darting into space behind defenders.

His first touch? It’s solid. He hangs onto possession under pressure, and he uses his pace and agility to beat defenders one-on-one. Coaches keep trusting him in a bunch of attacking roles because he blends technique and tactical awareness.

You want a reliable option up front? Tavares fits the bill. He slips into different attacking schemes, letting the manager tweak things depending on the match—an absolute must in a long MLS season. If you’re curious about his positional data, check out the detailed statistics page.

Youth and Early Career

Iuri Tavares built his foundation in some of Portugal’s most respected youth systems. He bounced between top academies, picking up valuable experience at every stop.

Benfica Academy

Tavares started his soccer journey at the famous Benfica Academy. This place, known for churning out top Portuguese talent, puts a big focus on technical skill, discipline, and tactical smarts. Coaches at Benfica set the tone early, helping Tavares raise his standards for attitude and performance.

Competition at Benfica? It’s fierce. Players fight for every spot on the youth teams. Tavares put in the work to stand out, learning to play as a forward and keeping up with the high pace. His time at the academy shaped his style and gave him access to quality coaching and facilities.

Benfica’s academy teams jump into tournaments all over Europe. These international games gave Tavares the chance to face off against top youth sides from other countries. That early exposure to different playing styles really helped his development.

Benfica Academy at a Glance

Attribute	Details
Notable Alumni	João Félix, Rúben Dias
Focus	Technical and tactical
Age Groups	U9-U19
Location	Lisbon, Portugal

Belenenses and SL Benfica

After starting out at Benfica, Tavares went on loan to CF Belenenses. That move let him dive into a new club culture and work with different coaches. Playing for Belenenses challenged him to adapt and stay flexible.

He returned to SL Benfica after the loan, back in a structured, high-pressure academy. There, he sharpened his tactical awareness and finishing, showing real growth within the youth squads. These different experiences broadened his game sense and maturity.

Training with various youth clubs made Tavares comfortable with change. He learned to adjust quickly and deliver under pressure. That stretch set him up nicely for the jump to the pro level.

Estoril and Estoril Praia SAD

Tavares took the next step at Estoril Praia SAD, moving closer to professional football. Estoril, competing in Portugal’s Liga Portugal 2 and Primeira Liga, brought a new level of competition. He joined the U23 and B teams, putting lessons from the academies into action.

At Estoril, he faced older, more experienced players. He worked on his physical game and learned to deal with tougher defenses. The environment pushed him to add new wrinkles to his attacking play.

Joining Estoril’s setup was a real move toward the pro ranks. Strong performances with the U23 squad—and occasional run-outs with the senior team—raised his profile and got him ready for bigger challenges. That foundation paved the way for his move to Crown Legacy FC and later Charlotte FC.

Previous Clubs and Transfers

Before landing at Charlotte FC, Iuri Tavares built his career across different leagues and clubs. He’s got adaptability in spades, with experience in Europe and the United States, including Crown Legacy FC and the MLS Next Pro competition.

Playing in San Marino

Tavares started his early pro journey in the microstate of San Marino. Competing in the Campionato Sammarinese, he picked up valuable playing minutes at a young age.

That league isn’t as famous as Europe’s top tiers, but it gave him regular starts and responsibility. He showed off his versatility, work rate, and technical ability, even against physically demanding, well-organized defenses.

He adapted quickly, caught the eye of scouts, and soon made his next move. That stint gave him match experience and a shot at leadership in a small but fiercely competitive league.

Experience at Crown Legacy FC

After leaving European football, Tavares joined Crown Legacy FC, the MLS NEXT Pro affiliate of Charlotte FC, ahead of their first season. He became the club’s first permanent transfer—a big moment for both him and the organization.

At Crown Legacy FC, Tavares took on a central role as a forward. The club’s setup blended youth prospects with international experience. With the coaching staff’s help, he sharpened his offensive skills and tactical awareness, becoming a difference-maker up front.

Here’s a quick look at his key stats at Crown Legacy FC:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	25	8	4

His performance there built his reputation as a reliable scorer and team player. That directly led to his contract with Charlotte FC—see more at Charlotte FC’s official site.

MLS Next Pro Stint

Tavares’ time in MLS NEXT Pro put him on the national radar. Every week, he faced tough opposition, which really sped up his development as a forward and as a pro.

He played multiple spots across the front line, using his pace and smarts to challenge defenders. That adaptability became a huge plus, especially with a roster full of young academy talent and established prospects.

AS1, his agency, handled his contract negotiations and set him up for future moves. Scouts and analysts tracked his progress closely—Transfermarkt noted his contributions and rising market value.

His MLS NEXT Pro stint was all about steady improvement, consistent minutes, and clear growth in both technical and tactical areas.

Professional Relationships

Iuri Tavares’s journey with Charlotte FC has meant learning from new management, connecting with a diverse squad, and working closely with his agent to shape his career. Every relationship plays a role in his day-to-day, both on and off the pitch.

Managerial Influence

Dean Smith, the experienced Charlotte FC manager, has played a big part in Tavares’s adjustment to Major League Soccer. Smith is methodical and really cares about player development. Under his guidance, Tavares has zeroed in on improving his hold-up play and finishing.

Smith likes open dialogue and regular feedback. That’s helped Tavares settle into the team’s tactics quickly, especially when facing tough defensive sides like Sporting Kansas City and New York City FC. The manager’s willingness to tweak strategy based on the opponent benefits Tavares and the other attackers.

Smith’s background in England brings a different perspective, emphasizing discipline and consistent effort. Tavares has responded well, showing progress in both training and matches.

Teammates and Key Players

Tavares lines up with some notable teammates at Charlotte FC, each bringing something unique to the attack. Patrick Agyemang and Kerwin Vargas often play forward roles, giving both competition and support. Their link-up play in the final third helps Tavares find space.

Midfielders like Nikola Petković and João Pedro deliver key passes, feeding the ball into dangerous spots. Younger guys like Nimfasha Berchimas and Brandon Cambridge bring energy in training, keeping the tempo up.

Here’s a quick look at selected teammates and their contributions this season:

Player	Position	Goals	Assists
Patrick Agyemang	Forward	6	2
Kerwin Vargas	Winger	3	5
Nikola Petković	Midfielder	1	4
João Pedro	Midfielder	2	3

This chemistry has helped Tavares settle in. Defensive efforts from Chituru Odunze and creative sparks from Tyger Smalls add to the team’s balance.

Player Agent and Representation

Tavares’s agent has played a big role in his professional path, handling contract talks and transfer opportunities. The agent was especially important in finalizing his move from Crown Legacy FC to Charlotte FC’s first team, a transition that happened quickly—see Charlotte FC’s announcement.

The agent works closely with the club to protect Tavares’s interests, especially when it comes to playing time and long-term plans. This partnership also covers sponsorship deals and potential international matches for Cape Verde.

Good communication with his agent lets Tavares focus on playing, knowing his off-field business is in good hands. The agent’s track record with other pros usually opens doors to new experiences, both in the U.S. and abroad.

Contract and Sponsorship Details

Iuri Tavares locked in a multi-year deal that makes him a building block for Charlotte FC’s attack. The club’s outfitter also shapes his look on and off the field, tying branding and performance together.

Contract Expiry and Options

Tavares signed with Charlotte FC on February 20, 2024. The contract runs through the end of the 2026 MLS season, giving the club room to maneuver as the roster changes. There’s a club option for one more year, so Charlotte FC can extend it through 2027 if they want.

This long-term commitment signals Charlotte’s intent to keep Tavares as a core piece for the next few seasons. His age and recent promotion from Crown Legacy FC make this a notable deal. Fans who track player moves will want to check out his contract details on Transfermarkt.

Detail	Value
Contract Signed	Feb 20, 2024
Contract Expires	Dec 31, 2026
Club Option	1 year (2027)

Outfitter and Kit Sponsorship

Charlotte FC’s kit comes from Adidas. This partnership covers all first team players, including Tavares, so there’s consistency in quality and style. Adidas handles the match kits, training gear, and fan merch, keeping their brand strong in MLS.

Adidas logos show up on Charlotte FC’s jerseys as the official outfitter. Players wear Adidas cleats, socks, and training gear for all MLS matches and events. That kind of consistent branding keeps the league’s identity strong and gives the players top equipment every season. You’ll find more details at Tavares’s club profile.

Participation in International Competitions

Iuri Tavares has made his mark with both club and country, stepping onto the international stage and showing what he can do at the highest level. He’s already represented Cape Verde and is preparing for chances with Charlotte FC that could lead to even bigger tournaments.

Major Tournaments

Tavares made his first senior appearance for Cape Verde back in 2019, coming off the bench in an international match. Sure, it was a limited role, but that debut sent a message—the national coaches saw something in him.

He hasn’t logged regular minutes yet for Cape Verde, but hey, even one cap is a huge milestone for a young player trying to break through. He’s still waiting for a shot in the big African tournaments—the Africa Cup of Nations, World Cup qualifiers—those dream stages. His role with the national team? Still developing, and it’s honestly one to keep an eye on.

As he racks up more experience with Charlotte FC, you can’t help but wonder if more international call-ups are on the horizon. For now, though, that senior debut stands out as his proudest moment, at least according to the club’s roster page.

Senior International Stats

Year	Team	Appearances	Goals
2019	Cape Verde	1	0

Potential for Club World Cup

Charlotte FC’s got its sights set high in Major League Soccer. The club wants to break through and maybe, just maybe, punch a ticket to the FIFA Club World Cup. Of course, they’ll need to finish strong in competitions like the CONCACAF Champions Cup to even get a sniff at that opportunity.

Tavares lines up as a forward for Charlotte. If the club manages to qualify for something as massive as the Club World Cup, players like Tavares could end up facing some of the world’s best. That’s the dream, right? For now, though, Charlotte’s international ambitions depend on climbing the MLS table and making noise in North American tournaments.

A Club World Cup appearance hasn’t happened yet, but if this team keeps developing and picking up results, who knows? Tavares and his teammates are locked in on reaching that next level—continental, global, you name it. Want more on Tavares and Charlotte’s tournament dreams? Check out his Charlotte FC profile.

Preseason and Training

Iuri Tavares joined Charlotte FC’s first team ahead of a huge 2024 campaign. Expectations? They’re high for what he can bring, both on and off the field.

His preseason approach and training progress have already offered a glimpse into his role up front. You can see how he’s trying to fit into the club’s plans.

Preparation for 2024 Season

Before the 2024 season even kicked off, Tavares zeroed in on adapting to Charlotte FC’s system. He focused on physical conditioning and technical drills, pushing himself to prove he’s ready for this level.

Coaches gave him individual targets—work on positioning, sharpen that finishing touch. The technical team paid close attention to his pressing and how he wins the ball back. Strength and agility drills became part of his daily routine, all about boosting explosiveness and stamina.

He played in several closed-door scrimmages with the first team. In those matches, Tavares worked on building chemistry with the midfield and adjusting to tactical changes.

Drill Type	Frequency (per week)	Primary Focus
Technical Drills	4	Ball control, finishing
Strength Training	3	Power, injury prevention
Tactical Review	2	Positioning, pressing
Scrimmages	2	Team chemistry, tactics

Training Camp Experience

Preseason camp kicked off, and Tavares dove right in, battling with veteran forwards for a shot at the starting lineup.

The coaches mixed things up, pairing him with a bunch of different attacking partners just to see how he’d handle switching roles.

Teammates and coaches didn’t hold back on feedback. They pointed out things like his timing on runs and how he made decisions when the pressure cranked up.

He took it all in stride. Tavares started working on those late runs into the box and tried to get quicker with his turns in tight spots.

Major League Soccer preseason is no joke. Tavares pushed through those double-session days, paying extra attention to recovery—stretching, nutrition, the whole deal.

He started building chemistry with Charlotte FC’s playmakers, which could mean some exciting attacking combos once the season gets rolling.

Team meetings? He was always taking notes, really buying into Charlotte FC’s tactical system.

That kind of prep should help him slot right in when the regular season kicks off and he joins the squad as an international player.