The Charleston Battery are excited to announce Monday the signing of defender Joey Akpunonu (APP-ah-no-nu) to the 2025 roster, pending league and federation approval. The 2023 MLS SuperDraft first-round pick bolsters the Battery’s back line ahead of the preseason.
Akpunonu, 23, spent his previous two seasons with FC Cincinnati after being drafted 22nd overall in the SuperDraft and signed as a Generation adidas player. Akpunonu split time with the first team and FC Cincinnati 2 his rookie season and made his MLS debut on June 24, 2023.
“I’m looking forward to playing for the city and having the chance to compete for trophies,” said Akpunonu. “What drew to me to join the Battery was the style of play and how much they have been able to dominate the ball. I also know how involved the team is in the community, so that’s something that is very special. The club’s culture and locker room are great, too.”
The 6-3 center-back spent 2024 on loan with USL Championship side Hartford Athletic and MLS NEXT Pro club Huntsville City FC. Akpunonu featured in 15 matches with Hartford, recording one assist, and eight games with Huntsville, recording one assist. Among Akpunonu’s most memorable performances came against the Battery, when he made two goal-line clearances in quick succession at Trinity Health Stadium.
“Joey is a steady center-back who we are excited to bring into our club,” said Head Coach Ben Pirmann. “Despite his young age, he already has incredible experiences in MLS and USL. Joey is physically gifted with his strength, speed, and power, but is also incredibly intelligent, on and off the pitch. He is mature and understands what it takes to win, and we are beyond thrilled for him and his family to join our club.”
A native of Toledo, Ohio, Akpunonu enjoyed a successful and decorated collegiate career at Bowling Green State University. Akpunonu was an Academic All-America First Team honoree, two-time All-MAC and Academic All-MAC selection, and BGSU Male Athlete of the Year winner before becoming the school’s first player selected in the SuperDraft.
Akpunonu also competed with USL League Two side Toledo Villa FC in 2020 and 2021 while at Bowling Green.
There is high anticipation from Akpunonu to start his new journey in Charleston.
“I played against Charleston last year and I really liked how much they valued possession,” Akpunonu. “They have a clear system and style of play and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”
Akpunonu will wear the number 22.
The addition of Akpunonu brings the Battery’s total number of players to 17. The club will continue to assess players and construct the roster in the build-up to the season opener on March 8 against Louisville City FC.
2025 Roster
Goalkeepers: Daniel Kuzemka
Defenders: Joey Akpunonu, Leland Archer, Langston Blackstock, Nathan Dossantos, Josh Drack, Graham Smith, Mark Segbers
Midfielders: Chris Allan, Johnny Klein, Aaron Molloy, Arturo Rodriguez, Juan David Torres, Emilio Ycaza
Forwards: Douglas Martínez, MD Myers, Zeke Soto
