Kerwin Vargas Charlotte FC Forward: Key Player Analysis and Season Highlights

Kerwin Vargas has become a real difference-maker for Charlotte FC, especially up front. The Colombian forward joined Charlotte FC back in 2022 and wasted no time carving out a spot as one of the team’s most trusted attackers.

At just 23, Vargas already stands out for his explosive speed and that nose for goal—he’s got a knack for showing up in the right place at the right time. That’s been huge for Charlotte as they fight through this season.

This year, Vargas sits near the top of the team’s scoring chart, chipping in with clutch goals when Charlotte needed a spark. Fans have noticed his relentless work rate. With his recent contract extension, the club made it pretty clear they see him as a big part of their future.

Want the full story on Vargas’s stats, growth, and what makes him so valuable to Charlotte FC? Stick around as we dive into his Major League Soccer journey. You can always check his official player page for more details and career numbers.

Kerwin Vargas at Charlotte FC

Since arriving from Colombia, Kerwin Vargas has really grown into a key figure for Charlotte FC. The club loves his skill, his drive, and the way he steps up when the pressure’s on.

He’s lifted the attack in MLS matches, making his presence felt in big moments.

Role as a Forward

Vargas brings serious energy and versatility to Charlotte’s front line. He’s comfortable in the middle or out wide, which gives the coaching staff plenty of options.

He uses his pace and quick feet to slip behind defenses, opening up space for others and setting up chances. That’s the kind of player every coach wants.

He’s a relentless presser, often leading the charge to win the ball back high up the field. That’s turned defense into attack for Charlotte plenty of times.

With the ball at his feet, Vargas looks confident and technical. He’ll take on defenders, thread passes under pressure, and always seems to pop up in dangerous spots inside the box.

He’s constantly looking for crosses or through balls, and that off-the-ball movement keeps defenders guessing. Charlotte FC showed their faith in him with a recent contract extension for their Colombian forward.

Key Performances and Goals

Vargas has turned into a steady scorer for Charlotte, finishing the 2024 regular season with six goals. That ties him for third on the squad—a clear sign of his growing role in the attack.

He’s got a habit of stepping up in the tight matches, either breaking the deadlock or pulling Charlotte back level. That’s what you want from your forwards.

Here’s a quick look at Vargas’ 2024 numbers:

Stat	Total
Goals	6
Assists	2
Appearances	28
Shots on Target	21

He’s earned respect in the locker room and from the coaching staff by finding the net when it matters. He’s not just about scoring, either—he puts in the hard yards off the ball.

MLS Cup Playoffs Impact

When the playoffs roll around, Vargas seems to find another gear. As Charlotte FC entered the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, his confidence was on full display.

He drove the attack with his movement and determination, causing problems for tough opponents. Coaches trust him in those big moments, and he’s shown real maturity with his runs and decision-making.

That’s the kind of player you want in the postseason—someone who creates chances and lifts the team. Vargas has become one of Charlotte’s most valuable playoff performers, and his energy under pressure has fired up fans and analysts alike.

Career Journey and Clubs

Kerwin Vargas didn’t just show up in MLS out of nowhere. He built his name in South America and Europe before coming to Charlotte.

His path took him from Colombia to Portugal, and finally to North America. Each move sharpened his skills and raised his profile.

Professional Debut and Early Clubs

Vargas started out in Colombia, playing youth soccer and honing his technical game early on. His ambition and strong performances caught the eye of scouts and coaches.

He began at a local club, then made the jump abroad. Those early days demanded focus and adaptability, and they set the stage for his move to European football.

His discipline and speed stood out from the start. Coaches noticed his work ethic, and that’s what separated him from others.

Time at Feirense and Liga Portugal 2

He got his first real taste of European football with C.D. Feirense in Portugal’s Liga Portugal 2. That was a step up, and he had to learn the tactical side of the game quickly.

Vargas regularly played on the left wing, showing off his dribbling and crossing. Facing tougher defenders forced him to make quicker decisions and boosted his attacking output.

Feirense (2021-2022) Statistics

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2021-2022	28	7	2

His time at Feirense was short but meaningful. He turned heads and drew interest from bigger clubs and scouts looking for young attacking talent.

Experience with FC Porto and FC Famalicão

Vargas spent time with FC Porto and FC Famalicão, mostly at the youth and reserve levels. He didn’t crack the first team, but he trained with some of the best young players in Portugal.

He worked on his positioning and tactical awareness. Practicing with top prospects and experienced staff helped him read the game better and make smarter moves in the final third.

Even without making a splash in the first team, Vargas learned plenty and gained the confidence he’d need for senior football.

Transition to Major League Soccer

In May 2022, Vargas signed with Charlotte FC. The club brought him in as a U-22 Initiative player, a sign that they believed in his long-term upside.

He made an immediate impact. Vargas used his speed and flexibility to adapt to MLS, playing both wings and sometimes as a central forward. That tactical flexibility gave his coaches more ways to use him.

Charlotte FC Key Stats

Season	Appearances	Goals
2022-2024 *	75	10

*Stats correct as of October 2024, as seen on his official profile.

He signed a contract extension in May 2024, keeping him in Charlotte through 2024, with options through 2026. Vargas has turned into a regular starter and a big part of the attack.

Playing Style and Strengths

Vargas stands out for his direct attacking approach. He’s always looking for good positions and brings a blend of skills that work both on the wing and in the middle.

His movement pulls defenses apart and creates real danger for opponents.

Attacking Skills and Versatility

Vargas uses his speed and agility to take on defenders one-on-one. He’s confident with the ball at his feet and can change direction in a flash, making him tough to contain out wide.

He’s always scanning for passing lanes, looking to connect with teammates in tight spaces. That vision opens up attacking chances and creates options for quick shots or crosses.

His versatility is a real asset. Vargas plays as a left winger but can shift inside when needed, keeping defenders on their toes.

Switching roles mid-game? No problem for him. That unpredictability makes it tough for opponents to shut him down.

Finishing and Shots

Inside the box, Vargas doesn’t hesitate. In 2024, he scored six goals and led the team in shots with 62 attempts. He’s always looking to get involved around the goal.

He picks his shots carefully, usually aiming for corners or low finishes instead of flashy stuff. He keeps defenders guessing and finds space even in crowded penalty areas.

That ability to create and finish chances has made him a real threat in Charlotte’s attack.

Season	Goals	Shots	Assists
2024	6	62	1

For more on his numbers, check Vargas’s Charlotte FC profile.

Winger and Striker Roles

Vargas is at his best as a left winger, stretching the field and attacking fullbacks with speed and control. He likes to cut inside on his right foot, forcing defenders to make tough choices and often drawing fouls near the box.

When he moves up top as a striker, Vargas presses high, stays on the last defender’s shoulder, and looks for through balls. He’s not afraid of aerial battles or scrapping for second balls—he brings real energy when Charlotte needs it.

His ability to play multiple attacking spots gives coaches more tactical freedom. That’s made him a regular in Charlotte’s starting lineup, trusted for his work rate and attacking spark.

Want a deeper look at his roles? Check his Transfermarkt profile.

Performance Statistics

Kerwin Vargas has become a regular name on the Charlotte FC team sheet, logging big minutes as a starting forward. He’s contributed both with goals and by creating chances for others.

League Appearances and Starting XI

Vargas joined Charlotte FC in 2022 and quickly became a fixture in the lineup, especially during the regular season. He usually starts on the left wing, giving the team width and pace.

Over the 2023 and early 2024 seasons, Vargas logged heavy minutes. Coaches leaned on his work rate and ability to stretch the field.

At 23, he already plays with a maturity beyond his years, tracking back and joining the attack when needed.

Here’s a look at his regular season numbers:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes Played
2022	32	28	2,146
2023	30	27	2,095
2024*	16	14	1,100

*As of June 2024

Vargas usually starts and rarely misses out due to rotation or injury. That says a lot about his reliability and value to Charlotte FC.

Goals and Assists Record

Scoring and creating chances—those are Vargas’s bread and butter. From that left wing, he’s been racking up numbers for Charlotte FC.

In 2022, Vargas punched in 5 goals and set up 4 more in league play. The following year, he kept up the pace, with 4 goals and 6 assists. By mid-2024, he’d already chipped in 3 goals and 2 assists, staying right in the thick of the action.

Here’s a quick look at his recent stats:

Season	Goals	Assists
2022	5	4
2023	4	6
2024*	3	2

He keeps Charlotte FC sharp and dangerous up front. If you want to dive into the numbers, check out his player stats.

Memorable Moments

Kerwin Vargas has delivered some real highlight-reel performances for Charlotte FC. He’s not just about the goals—he’s got a knack for making plays fans talk about long after the final whistle.

Match-Winning Goals

Vargas has a flair for the dramatic. Remember his 100th appearance? He darted into the box, met a low cross, and buried it—classic timing, classic Vargas.

He’s come up big plenty of other times, too. Since May 2022, he’s knocked in six goals and handed out six assists in regular season play. If you’re a Charlotte fan, you know he’s a threat every week.

Key MLS Regular Season Stats

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2022-2024	52	6	6

Want more on Vargas’s clutch moments? Head over to his player profile.

Bicycle Kicks and Highlights

Vargas doesn’t just stick to the basics. He’s tried (and sometimes landed) bicycle kicks that get the crowd buzzing.

He’s got a bag of tricks—quick dribbles, sharp turns, all in tight spaces. These moments really light up Bank of America Stadium. You never quite know what he’ll try next, and that unpredictability makes him a must-watch.

For his best moments, check out the match recaps and highlight reels from Charlotte FC.

Personal Background

Kerwin Vargas’s journey starts in Santa Marta, Colombia, and winds all the way to the front line at Charlotte FC. It’s been a story of steady growth and ambition.

Early Life in Santa Marta

Kerwin Andrés Calderón Vargas was born January 2, 2002, in Santa Marta. He grew up in Concordia, a Magdalena town that’s produced its share of athletes.

As a kid, Vargas was always out on the pitch, joining pickup games wherever he could. The challenges he faced early on built up his toughness. His family gave him the support he needed to stick with soccer and school.

Santa Marta’s football culture left its mark on him. He looked up to big-name Colombian league players, and that fired him up to chase his own dreams.

Youth Clubs and Development

Vargas kicked off his club journey with CA Santa Marta, where his quick feet and sharp thinking set him apart. He moved on to Boca Juniors de Cali and Academia Europea—both known for high standards and tough competition.

Coaches saw his potential early. He played all over the front line, adjusting to whatever the team needed. Those club experiences gave him valuable match minutes and helped him pick up the tactical side of the game.

Here’s a quick rundown of his youth clubs:

Club Name	Location	Years
CA Santa Marta	Santa Marta	Early years
Boca Juniors de Cali	Cali	Youth
Academia Europea	Colombia	Youth

Getting that kind of academy training set him up for the next level.

Youth National Team Experience

Vargas caught the eye of Colombia’s youth national team coaches. He got the call to train and play with some of the country’s top young talent.

Facing international competition forced him to adapt. He learned to handle different tactics and tougher opponents. That experience built his confidence and made him a smarter player.

His time with the national team also helped him build connections and raised his expectations for what it takes to succeed. That’s the kind of background that’s helped him fit right in at Charlotte FC.

MLS and U-22 Initiative

Kerwin Vargas made his way to Major League Soccer as a young forward with plenty to prove. Charlotte FC used the league’s U-22 Initiative to bring him in—a move that says a lot about their focus on youth.

Eligibility and Participation

The MLS U-22 Initiative lets teams sign players under 22 with a lower salary cap hit. Vargas fit the bill, joining Charlotte at age 20.

Born January 2, 2002, he signed in 2022 as their second U-22 Initiative player. Charlotte saw a chance to invest in a high-upside prospect while keeping their salary budget in check.

Here’s a snapshot of his early MLS days:

Season	Age	Matches Played	Goals	Assists
2022	20	13	1	0
2023	21	28	4	2

He didn’t take long to get comfortable—bringing pace, skill, and a spark to the Charlotte attack.

Contract Extension and Terms

On May 9, 2024, Charlotte FC locked Vargas in with a new contract through 2027, plus a club option for 2028. That’s a real vote of confidence.

With the new deal, Vargas won’t count as a U-22 Initiative slot anymore. That opens the door for Charlotte to scout and sign more young talent under the same program.

Now, Vargas has to keep earning his spot with his play, not just his age. Charlotte’s making it clear—they reward young players who deliver. That’s how you build a roster in MLS these days. More on the U-22 Initiative.

Key Matches and Rivalries

Kerwin Vargas has shown up in some big games for Charlotte FC. Each of these contests has tested him and given fans a reason to pay attention.

Orlando City SC Showdown

Early on, Vargas and the Charlotte attack ran into a tough Orlando City defense. Orlando pressed high, so Vargas had to think fast and move even faster.

He found space on the left wing, dragging defenders out and giving his teammates room to operate. He didn’t score, but he played a big part in keeping the pressure on until the end.

Vargas completed 87 percent of his passes and pulled off three successful dribbles. His energy kept Charlotte right in the fight.

Statistic	Total
Key Passes	2
Dribbles	3
Pass Accuracy	87%
Shots on Target	1

Wild Card Match Against New York Red Bulls

In the wild card showdown with the New York Red Bulls, Vargas was all about width and speed.

New York’s press put Charlotte’s defense under pressure, but Vargas used his pace to launch counters. Early in the match, he whipped in a cross that nearly led to a goal.

He didn’t score, but his runs forced the Red Bulls to adjust. Even late in the game, when everyone was running on fumes, Vargas kept hustling and rarely lost possession.

| Minute Played | 90 | | Crosses Attempted | 5 | | Chances Created | 2 | | Tackles Won | 2 |

Crucial Moments Versus Chicago Fire FC

Against Chicago Fire FC, Vargas played a big part in one of Charlotte’s most exciting wins. The match swung back and forth, with goals flying in on both sides.

Vargas set up the game-winner in a 3-2 thriller. His quick thinking in the final third made the difference. That assist was his first for Charlotte—a moment he and the fans won’t forget.

| Goal Contributions | 1 Assist | | Total Passes | 19 | | Shots | 2 | | Fouls Drawn | 3 |

Decision Day Drama

Decision Day always brings drama, and Vargas was right in the thick of it. Charlotte needed a result to keep playoff hopes alive, and Vargas had to break down a stubborn defense.

He set the tone early, drawing fouls and pushing the pace. As time ticked away, his sharp passing and pressing kept the pressure on.

Vargas showed he could handle the spotlight, even if things didn’t always go Charlotte’s way. He kept possession, won fouls, and stayed relentless all match.

| Clearances | 1 | | Dribbles | 4 | | Fouls Won | 4 | | Pass Accuracy | 85% |

Honors, Competitions, and Stadium

Kerwin Vargas’s time at Charlotte FC includes appearances in major U.S. soccer tournaments, playoff pushes, and some big moments in front of one of MLS’s best crowds.

Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Appearances

Since joining Charlotte FC in 2022, Vargas has played in both the Leagues Cup and the U.S. Open Cup. The Leagues Cup puts MLS teams up against Liga MX’s best—tough competition, no doubt.

Charlotte hasn’t made a deep run yet, but Vargas’s speed and direct play always give them a chance. In the U.S. Open Cup, with its knockout format, he’s become a regular thanks to his work rate and willingness to help out defensively.

These tournaments test every player. Vargas’s ability to contribute in multiple competitions shows just how valuable he is to this club.

Cup Appearance Stats

Competition	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Leagues Cup	4	0	1
U.S. Open Cup	3	1	0

Team Playoff Berth

Charlotte FC grabbed a playoff berth during Vargas’s time with the club. Vargas scored six goals that really helped push the attack forward.

He wrapped up the 2024 regular season tied for third on the team in goals. That’s pretty impressive, especially with the squad gearing up for the postseason.

Vargas’s regular season play gave the team some real momentum heading into the playoffs. He played both wings, so the coaches leaned on him for tactical flexibility.

Charlotte FC built its roster around youth and speed, and the playoff run showed just how ambitious this club wants to be. Vargas’s growth as a young forward was on full display.

Want more details? Check out the Charlotte FC forward Kerwin Vargas story.

Home Ground: Bank of America Stadium

Bank of America Stadium is where Charlotte FC calls home. It sits right in uptown Charlotte and can pack in over 74,000 fans for soccer, which is just massive for MLS.

On matchdays, you feel the energy. The crowds are huge, and the city’s skyline makes the whole thing feel electric.

Vargas has played plenty of big games on this field, from regular season battles to playoff showdowns and even the first Leagues Cup appearance. The stadium’s size gives Charlotte a real home-field advantage.

Since it’s in the center of town, fans from all over can make it out, so Vargas and the team get strong support every time. For more info about the stadium, check out Bank of America Stadium.

Physical Attributes and Playing Details

Kerwin Vargas brings a mix of size, agility, and skill every time he steps on the field. His physical traits let him slot in anywhere up front and keep Charlotte’s attack unpredictable.

Height and Physical Profile

Vargas stands at 1.80 meters—that’s about 5’11”. He’s got enough height to go toe-to-toe with defenders in tight spots.

He’s not bulky, but his athletic, lean build lets him explode past defenders and turn on a dime. Vargas uses his body to shield the ball and then accelerates away.

On set pieces, he’ll go up for headers, but honestly, his footwork is what stands out. He’s not really the guy you think of for aerial duels.

Attribute	Value
Height	1.80 m
Weight	Not listed
Build	Lean, athletic
Position	Forward

He keeps his energy up for the full 90 minutes and stays sharp late in matches. Vargas depends on his quick feet and agility to find chances in tight areas.

Preferred Foot

Vargas plays as a right-footer, and he’s pretty crafty with it. When he’s on the left wing, he likes to cut inside and shoot with his strong foot.

That makes him a tough cover for defenders. They have to respect both his shot and his passing.

He’s confident taking shots from distance or swinging in crosses with his right. On the left, he’ll drive into the box and look to finish with that same foot.

Sure, he’ll use his left for short passes, but most of his attacking moves come off his right. Defenders usually try to push him onto his weaker foot, hoping to slow him down.

That move can actually open up spaces for his teammates. Vargas’s right foot just adds another layer to Charlotte FC’s attack.

Date of Birth

Kerwin Vargas was born January 2, 2002, in Concordia, Magdalena, Colombia. So, by June 2025, he’ll be 23—still young, but already making a real impact.

At this age, he brings a ton of energy and bounce to the roster. He’s got room to grow, and with every match, he picks up more experience.

Honestly, you can see he’s just getting started. There’s a lot of upside here for Charlotte’s attack.

If you want to dig deeper, check out his club profile or Wikipedia entry.

Notable Teammates and Collaborations

Kerwin Vargas has played alongside some talented teammates at Charlotte FC. These partnerships have shaped the team’s attack and given Vargas extra support up front.

Partnership with Patrick Agyemang

Vargas and Patrick Agyemang have become quite a dynamic duo up top. Agyemang’s strength in the air and ability to hold up play lets Vargas find space and make runs.

When Agyemang brings down the ball, Vargas is often right there, ready to finish. They each bring something different—Vargas with speed and dribbling, Agyemang with power and hold-up play.

That mix keeps Charlotte’s attack unpredictable. Their chemistry especially stands out on counterattacks and set pieces.

Agyemang pulls defenders away, and Vargas jumps into the open spots.

Key Statistics (2025 Season)

Player	Goals	Assists	Key Passes
Kerwin Vargas	6	4	29
Patrick Agyemang	8	3	18

Their combined skills have made Charlotte’s attack a real headache for opponents.

Playing Alongside Liel Abada

Liel Abada joined Charlotte and added another spark to the attack. He’s smart with his runs and always seems to pop up in the right spot.

Abada and Vargas work well on the wings. Their passing is sharp, and they both love taking on defenders one-on-one.

Abada cuts inside, which gives Vargas room to run behind the back line. They’ll play quick one-twos and break fast on the counter.

With Abada stretching defenses, Vargas gets more space to create and score. Their rotation out wide keeps the attack fresh and tough to predict.

Charlotte’s wing play definitely got a boost with Abada on board. Opponents can’t just focus on one side anymore.

Kerwin Vargas as a Colombian Talent

Kerwin Vargas has turned heads as one of the more exciting young players in Major League Soccer. As a Colombian forward with Charlotte FC, his progress has caught the eye of fans both in MLS and back home.

Recognition in Soccer Circles

Vargas’s story started in Concordia, Magdalena, and he’s climbed the ladder the hard way. Like a lot of Colombian talents, he began at a local youth club—Cundy FC—before making the jump to the pros.

He joined Charlotte FC in 2022 and wasted no time showing off his speed and technical ability. The club clearly believes in him, signing him to a deal that keeps him in Charlotte through 2027.

In MLS, coaches and scouts have noticed how quickly Vargas has adapted to the league’s physical style. He’s versatile, switching between winger and forward as needed.

2025 Season Statistics (MLS):

Category	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Shots
Starts	6	2	0	19
Substitute	12	—	—	—

At 23, Vargas keeps earning more playing time as the coaches look for that next big step in his offensive game.

Prospects for National Team Selection

Colombia’s got a seriously deep pool of attacking talent, so young forwards like Vargas face a tough road to the national team. But you know what? Fans and plenty of folks back in Colombia have started to notice his strong showings in MLS.

Now that Vargas has inked a long-term deal with Charlotte FC, the chatter about future call-ups is picking up steam. He gets regular minutes in a top league, and he can play a bunch of forward roles—those things really help his case.

His age works in his favor, too. The Colombian staff likes to bring in fresh faces who might stick around for a few international cycles.

If Vargas keeps improving at the club level, he could pop up on Colombia’s radar for friendlies or even qualifying matches. He’s got the technical skills, he’s quick, and he never stops working—exactly what the national team wants in a modern forward.

A lot of Colombian soccer fans? They’re already keeping a close eye on Vargas. He’s definitely one to watch as the years go by.