- Years with club: 2018–2019
- Position: Defender (Right-back / Centre-back)
Carter Manley was drafted by Minnesota United in the first round (23rd overall) of the 2018 MLS SuperDraft out of Duke University. Known as an attack-minded outside back with great pace and strong technical ability, Manley was brought in to develop into a rotational piece in the backline. He made his professional debut with the Loons in 2018. However, like many young players, he struggled to secure consistent minutes in a rebuilding MLS side and spent a significant amount of his time on loan to gain experience in the lower divisions. He made only nine total appearances for the Loons’ first team before the club declined his contract option at the end of the 2019 season.
Key stats:
- MLS regular season appearances: 9 (8 in 2018, 1 in 2019)
- Assists: 1 (MLS regular season)
- Loan spell appearances: 8 (Las Vegas Lights FC, USL); 19 (Forward Madison FC, USL League One)
Memorable moments:
- Draft status: His selection in the first round of the SuperDraft highlighted the club’s belief in his potential to become an MLS contributor.
- Loan to affiliate: His most extensive playing time during his Minnesota contract came with the club’s USL League One affiliate, Forward Madison FC, in 2019, where he was a consistent starter and notched his only professional goal while under contract with MNUFC.
Where are they now?:
- After leaving Minnesota United, Manley continued his career in the USL Championship.
- He signed with Rio Grande Valley FC Toros for two seasons (2020–2021).
- In 2022, he signed with San Antonio FC, where he was a vital part of the backline that won the 2022 USL Championship title.
- Carter Manley announced his retirement from professional soccer in October 2024, following the conclusion of the 2024 USL Championship season.