Charlotte (NC) — The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team announced 18-year-old, forward Zyen Jones has been signed to the 2019 roster, pending league and federation approval. Alongside teammates Timothy Weah and Andrew Carleton, Jones featured for the U.S. Youth National Team in the 2017 CONCACAF U-17 Championship, scoring two goals, including the game-winner versus El Salvador.

Last year, Jones was signed by Bundesliga powerhouse Schalke 04. Joining the U-19 side, Jones featured in 18 games, including four UEFA Youth League games, scoring three goals with three assists across all competitions. A product of Atlanta United FC’s youth system, Jones and then-teammate Andrew Carleton led the U-15/16 squad to its first Development Academy national title in 2017.

“Zyen Jones is young and energetic and a really fast, direct winger that can press the game really well,” said Independence Head Coach Jim McGuinness. “He's fantastic in one-v-one situations and he carries a big threat going forward. We're really happy to have acquired him and he'll bring a different dynamic to the offense.”