CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced on Thursday the club had signed goalkeeper Jake McGuire to a two-year contract through the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.  

McGuire returns to North Carolina FC after two seasons with Miami FC, having been NCFC’s starting goalkeeper in the 2021 USL League One season. In that campaign McGuire started 21 games, made 74 saves, had a save percentage of 66.4 percent, and seven shutouts.

“We are excited to welcome Jake back to the club,” said NCFC Head Coach and Sporting Director John Bradford. “We were impressed by both his leadership and technical ability when he was with us in 2021, and we think he is a great fit for our club in this transition. He is a proven keeper in this league and will be invaluable on the field and in helping our young keepers learn and grow.”

Over the past two seasons with Miami, the 29-year-old has made 23 appearances and recorded 68 saves on a save percentage of 70.8 percent. McGuire had previously spent two seasons in the Championship with the Philadelphia Union II. He has made 66 appearances overall in the league while posting a save percentage of 72.3 percent, 18 shutouts and a 1.21 goals-against average.  

“I’m excited to back in the city that feels like home for me, and I’m ready to get things started,” said McGuire.

Analysis

North Carolina’s re-acquisition of goalkeeper Jake McGuire for its return to the Championship makes a lot of sense for both parties, in particular given what a comfortable fit this feels like on and off the field. McGuire has been solid – and at times spectacular, see this past season at Rio Grande Valley FC – between the sticks for Miami FC in the past two seasons and provides a reliable option for John Bradford to call on.