Forward Madison FC announced in a press release Monday that it has signed Cherif Dieye, a 26-year-old forward from Senegal, pending league and federation approval. Dieye played in eight games for Central Valley Fuego FC in 2023, with four starts, two goals, and one assist.
The two goals came in the same game against Richmond Kickers, earning him player of the week honors.
“I am pleased to add Cherif to our 2024 roster,” Head Coach Matt Glaeser said in a statement. “He is powerful, aggressive 1v1, and can contribute goals and assists within our system. Cherif is versatile and hungry to compete and improve his game which are key qualities we look for in additions.”
The 5’9” attacker played college soccer at the University of Louisville, making 80 appearances, scoring 19 goals, and tallying eight assists. In 2018, he was named to the ACC Championship All-Tournament Team and the All-ACC Third Team, and in 2019, he was named USC All-South Second Team and All-ACC Second Team.
In 2020, Dieye was selected 15th overall in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft by the New York Red Bulls. In July of that same year, he made his professional debut with the New York’s affiliate team in the USL Championship league. There, he made 15 appearances and scored one goal. In 2022, Dieye joined USL League One and Central Valley Fuego FC. In the two seasons he was with the club, the forward made 33 total appearances and secured six goals.
Forward Madison’s home opener is scheduled for April 13, when the Mingos will host Richmond.
