Young defender commits future to Latics after impressing in Latics’ academy
- Charlie Hughes signs professional contract at Wigan Athletic
- U18s captain is a ball-playing centre back with outstanding leadership skills
- Defender made 14 starts for Latics U18s as Kieran Driscoll’s side retained the PDL North title last season
We are delighted to confirm that Charlie Hughes has signed a professional contract with Wigan Athletic.
Hughes has impressed immensely in Latics’ academy, and entered into the second year of his apprenticeship at the DW Stadium in the 2021/22 campaign.
The central defender arrived at Latics as an U15s player following spells with Premier League sides Manchester City and Liverpool.
Hughes is a ball-playing centre back who is extremely comfortable in possession, and boasts outstanding leadership qualities for a player of his age.
He made 14 starts for the U18s last season as Kieran Driscoll’s side retained the Professional Development League North title, and became National Champions at The Valley in May.
Ahead of the 2021/22 season, Hughes was named as captain of the U18s, as Latics look to build on their positive achievements of previous years.
It has been a positive start to the new campaign for Hughes, with the centre back also being involved in a first team match day squad for the first time in the recent Papa John’s Trophy fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers U21s.
Speaking about Hughes’ first professional deal, Academy Manager, Gregor Rioch said:
“We are delighted to see Charlie sign his first professional contract. Not only is he a talented footballer, but Charlie is a dedicated young man and a fantastic leader.”