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Columbus Crew sign Max Arfsten to Contract extension

The midfielder has had a stellar year for the Black & Gold

ByTyler Fisher|
Aug 31, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew forward Max Arfsten (27) controls the ball during the first half against the New York City at Lower.com Field. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Aug 31, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew forward Max Arfsten (27) controls the ball during the first half against the New York City at Lower.com Field. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

The Columbus Crew announced Wednesday afternoon that they have signed midfielder Max Arfsten to a contract extension through 2027 with a club option for 2028. During his second season with the Black & Gold, Arfsten has appeared in 30 regular season games, tallying 22 starts, alongside four goals and eight assists.

Arfsten was an MLS SuperDraft pick after spending some time with San Jose Earhquakes II in MLS Next Pro. The 23-year-old got his debut last season against Atlanta United, in which he scored a goal in their 6-1 thriller at home.

""As our team prepared for the 2023 season, we identified Max as a talented player who could develop into a key contributor for our First Team.""
Columbus Crew General Manager Issa Tall

Arfsten started all five of the Club's Leagues Cup matches, recording two assists en route to the Black & Gold lifting their first Leagues Cup trophy with a 2-1 win over LAFC; Their second trophy in a nine-month span. The Fresno, California native also appeared twice in the Concacaf Champions Cup, converting the game-winning penalty kick against Tigres UANL, propelling the Club to the Semifinals.

""Max has earned this new contract with the hard work he puts forth every da, including his willingness to learn, adapt and improve that is ingrained in our Club's culture. We're excited and confident that Max will continue to progress and contribute as a member of the Crew." "
Columbus Crew General Manager Issa Tall

Arfsten was selected 14th overall of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. In just his first year, Arfsten appeared in 12 games, three of them being starts and recorded three goals and two assists. He scored his first postseason goal in Game 2 Round 1 against Atlanta United, in the Crew's 4-2 loss during the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs.

During his time with San Jose Earthquakes II, he appeared in 24 matches tallying 21 starts in 2022, notching nine goals and six assists.

""I'm very proud to sign this extension with the Columbus Crew. This organization has and will continue to give me the best opportunity to grow as a player and person.""
Columbus Crew midfielder Max Arfsten

Arfsten and company end their 2023 MLS Campaign this Saturday against the New York Red Bulls. Kickoff from Red Bull Arena is set for 6pm EDT. You can watch MLS Decison Day on MLS SeasonPass on Apple TV.

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