Akil Watts, featuring a growing resume highlighted by overseas experiences, has signed a new deal to return to Louisville City FC in 2021, it was announced Monday.
The contract, pending league approval, keeps with LouCity a 20-year-old who plays as both a defender and midfielder. Watts made 11 appearances in this year’s condensed season, starting in four of those games.
“We are excited to re-sign Akil, who matured both on and off the field in 2020,” said LouCity’s head coach and sporting director, John Hackworth. “Akil is a versatile player who has all the tools to take his game to another level. It is our belief that he will continue to develop into a top professional in the years ahead, and we can’t wait to see him blossom in Lynn Family Stadium.”
Watts’ career took off as he played previously for Hackworth, the former United States U-17 Men’s National Team coach. Watts was a key piece of Hackworth’s 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup team in India and to the quarterfinals.
Those performances earned Watts attention of Spanish second division side RCD Mallorca, which made him a professional in 2018. A year later, the Fort Wayne, Ind., native returned to America as a midseason signing for LouCity.
Now, Watts will continue his development within the USL Championship ranks in what will be his second full season in purple.
“I am truly excited to compete again with Louisville City FC,” Watts said. “To borrow a line from Amy Poehler: When you find a group like this — players, coaches, the organization and fans — that challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life forever. I am thankful and so ready to get started again.”
Prior to turning professional, Watts spent time at IMG Academy in Florida before entering the U.S. U-17 Residency Program. Following the World Cup, he also spent his senior year within the Portland Timbers’ academy.
Watts counts as an inspiration another outside back and winger from Fort Wayne, DaMarcus Beasley, who remains the only U.S. Men’s National Team player to appear in four World Cups.
“We are very happy to be able to retain Akil for 2021,” said Danny Cruz, assistant coach and technical director. “He is a bright young talent who fits the style of play here. His versatility was very important to us both on the training ground and in games.
“We have seen fantastic growth since he has arrived here at Louisville City FC, and we are looking forward to having him back with the group.”
Watts’ signing adds to a lengthening list of LouCity returners for 2021. More player announcements are expected in the coming weeks as negotiations continue.
CURRENT LOUISVILLE CITY FC 2021 ROSTER
Goalkeeper – Chris Hubbard
Defender – Wes Charpie, Jonathan Gomez, Oscar Jimenez, Pat McMahon, Alexis Souahy, Sean Totsch, Akil Watts
Midfielder – Corben Bone, Paolo DelPiccolo, Napo Matsoso, Niall McCabe
Forward – Antoine Hoppenot, Cameron Lancaster, Brian Ownby, Abdou Thiam
