CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Friday, April 17, 2026) — Crown Legacy FC today announced the signing of Ecuadorian forward Michael Ayovi to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through the 2027 season, with Club options through June 30, 2029. The attacker joins the Club from Independiente del Valle where he featured primarily with the second team.
“We are excited to add Michael to our squad this season,” said Charlotte FC Assistant General Manager Bobby Belair. “Michael is a strong prospect coming from a great footballing environment who will develop well within MLS NEXT Pro. We look forward to his integration and are excited about his potential.”
Ayoví, 20, totaled 19 appearances with Independiente del Valle’s reserve squad, C.D. Independiente Juniors, Liga Pro Serie B, notching one assist in 357 minutes of action since making his debut in 2023. The forward featured twice with Independiente’s U-20 side last season, recording a goal in 124 minutes.
Name: Michael Ayoví
Transaction: Crown Legacy FC signs Ecuadorian forward Michael Ayoví to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through the 2027 season, with options through June 30, 2029.
Position: Forward
Height: 5’10”
Birthdate: 5/6/2005 (20)
Hometown: Machala, Ecuador
Previous Club: Independiente del Valle (ECU)
Crown Legacy FC Roster as of April 17, 2026:
Goalkeeper (2): Lazar Kaličanin, Jahiem Wickham
Defenders (4): Ashton Kamdem, Assane Ouedraogo, Willian Sangoquiza, Jamie Smith
Midfielders (4): Aron John, Daniel Longo, Erik Peña, Andrej Subotić
Forwards (5): Michael Ayoví, Barzee Blama, Hugo Mbongue, Nathan Richmond, Emmanuel Uchegbu
