Forward Madison FC has signed Francis Jno-Baptiste, a 23-year-old forward from Newham, England, pending league and federation approval, the club announced in a press release Wednesday. The 5-foot-9 forward spent his 2022 campaign with Isthmian League Premier Division club Brightlingsea Regent.
“Francis is a dynamic attacking player with pace and quality in the box,” Head Coach Matt Glaeser said. “He has 1st team experience in Europe and goals in Sweden’s top flight. We anticipate him to be an important part of the team and a strong performer in our league.”
Jno-Baptiste’s youth career began at the Crystal Palace academy. The forward spent six seasons from 2012-2019 playing with Crystal Palace, where he made one appearance in the U18 Premier League. His senior professional career kicked off in 2019, when Jno-Baptiste signed with Ostersund in Sweden’s top flight. From 2019-2022, Jno-Baptiste made 39 appearances with Ostersund and tallied six goals and two assists. For the 2020 season, Jno-Baptiste was loaned to AFC Eskilstuna, where he played in nine matches and contributed three goals and an assist. In 2022, the forward signed with Brightlingsea Regent and made five appearances with their squad.
“I think it will be a great opportunity for me to come to America, as I have never been before,” Jno-Baptiste said. “I look forward to learning the football culture and league style of play. I believe I can do well and help the team win the league.”
