November 17, 2023 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Columbus Crew SC News Release
COLUMBUS – The Columbus Crew have signed Captain and Midfielder Darlington Nagbe to a multiyear contract extension. A 13-year MLS veteran and three-time MLS Cup champion, Nagbe is guaranteed through the 2025 season with a Club option for 2026.
“It’s hard to put into words what Darlington means to this club. He is a proven winner and difference-maker who has consistently shown why he is one of the most highly respected players in MLS for his leadership, character, and his performance on the pitch and how he carries himself off it,” said President & General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “Darlington embodies the essence of a truly elite midfielder – smooth in possession with an uncanny ability to get out of very difficult situations on the field. He is revered by his teammates and opponents alike, and it was a priority for us to secure his long-term future in Columbus. We are excited that he and his family will remain members of the Crew and our city as we strive to win more championships.”
“Playing in my home state the past four years and winning an MLS Cup with the Crew has been really special, and it’s a blessing to continue my career in Columbus, both for me and my family,” said Nagbe. “We have more work to do, but I’m excited about what we’ve accomplished together this season and the future direction of our club. I’m proud to represent the Black & Gold, alongside my great teammates, and I’m thankful for the ongoing support from the Haslam, Johnson and Edwards families, Tim Bezbatchenko, Wilfried Nancy, the entire Crew staff and of course, our fans.”
Currently in his fourth season with the Black & Gold, Nagbe is one of only two players to contribute in all of the Crew’s 2023 MLS regular season (34) and postseason matches (three). He was named to MLS Team of the Matchday three times this year (Matchday 12, 23 and 34) and has recorded five goal contributions (four goals, one assist), highlighted by scoring from outside of the 18-yard box in the ninth minute of Columbus’ 4-2 Audi 2023 MLS Playoffs Round One series-clinching win against Atlanta United FC on Sunday at Lower.com Field.
One of the league’s most respected midfielders, Nagbe has appeared in 386 regular season matches with 371 starts, which rank ninth and tied for sixth in MLS history, respectively. He has logged 38 career goals and 45 assists while showing his resiliency and tactical awareness as the player who has…
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