Philadelphia signs D Kai Wagner to new contract

Field Level Media|published: Thu 11th January, 11:19 2024

Oct 21, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner (27) passes the ball during the second half against the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium. credits: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Union signed defender Kai Wagner to a new contract through the 2026 MLS season.

The deal announced Thursday for the 26-year-old German includes an option for 2027.

Wagner ranks second in franchise history with 39 assists and has five goals in 138 games (136 starts) since 2019.

"Kai has proven himself year after year as one of the best left backs in the league, and an integral part of our team success," said Union sporting director Ernst Tanner. "With his consistent defending and aggressive attacking style of play, he has greatly contributed to the new milestones the team has achieved every year, and we have full confidence his continued dedication and passion for this club will continue help us reach new heights."

Wagner recorded a goal and seven assists in 28 matches (all starts) in 2023, helping the Union to a fourth-place finish in the Eastern Conference table.

Before joining Philadelphia, Wagner played professionally in Germany with SSV Ulm (2015-16), Schalke 04 II (2016-17) and Wurzburger Kickers (2017-19).

—Field Level Media