Patrick Agyemang discusses his decision to move from Charlotte FC to Derby County in a record-breaking deal. The USMNT striker reflects on his Gold Cup experience and the exciting new chapter ahead in English football.
USMNT striker Patrick Agyemang has opened up about his exciting transfer to Derby County, following a standout career at Charlotte FC. The young forward’s move represents a record deal for his former club and marks a new chapter in his career.
In his first interview since completing the move to Derby County, Patrick Agyemang expressed his enthusiasm about joining the English Championship side. The 24-year-old striker signed a four-year contract with Derby for a transfer fee of around $8 million, plus potential add-ons. This fee represents a record for Charlotte FC, the club where Agyemang made his mark after being drafted in the MLS SuperDraft.
Agyemang shared his excitement, stating, “It’s exciting. Definitely been hearing good things about the club, the fans as well, and I always wanted to be a part of something special. Now that to finally be here, it’s amazing.” His decision to move to England stems from his desire to challenge himself in a more competitive environment after establishing himself as a key figure in MLS.
Reflecting on the transition from MLS to the Championship, Agyemang said, “For me, I always wanted to take that next step… I’m just excited for it.” He emphasized that joining Derby County and becoming part of their passionate fanbase is the perfect opportunity for his development. The striker also discussed the gradual process of learning about the club’s interest, noting, “I heard about it around once I was getting into the national team for the Gold Cup… You just want to hope for it to get across the line, and happily it did.”
Agyemang’s 2025 Gold Cup experience with USMNT was a defining moment in his career. The striker scored two goals during the tournament, helping his team reach the final, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to Mexico. Reflecting on his Gold Cup experience, he said, “It was very big… to represent the country and fight for the nation was a great feeling.” Agyemang, who started every match for the USMNT, is hopeful that his European move will further strengthen his international ambitions, including the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Agyemang’s move from Charlotte FC to Derby County highlights the growing trend of MLS players making the jump to Europe. After scoring 18 goals in MLS regular season play and becoming a regular contributor to the USMNT, Agyemang’s journey symbolizes how the pathway from MLS to European football has become more accessible for young American talents.
Unfortunately, Agyemang is expected to miss the opening matches of Derby County’s 2025-26 Championship season due to a hernia injury. He had been managing the issue without surgery during his time in MLS, but will now undergo the procedure to ensure full recovery.
