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).

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Saints' Derek Carr confirms rumor during guest sermon at Las Vegas church
Dyson Daniels steals his way to Most Improved Player Award
Insider suggests four-time Pro Bowl option for Steelers if Aaron Rodgers doesn't sign
Texas football team reportedly has shockingly high payroll
Five-star USC commit Alijah Arenas receives positive health update
Juan Soto's bat speed decline threatens Mets' $765 million investment
Steelers may have found another steal in UDFA pool as Pittsburgh lands an athletic freak
Collin Morikawa makes shocking change ahead of PGA Championship
Jets' Jordan Travis makes career-defining decision
Jerry Jones had harsh comment about Cowboys star CB
Astros pitcher who hasn't started since 2022 World Series set to return
Kelce brothers address Shedeur Sanders falling to fifth round of 2025 NFL Draft
NFL team executive expands on what Browns' Shedeur Sanders did wrong before draft
Insider names front-runner in Browns' QB competition after drafting Shedeur Sanders
Report: Eli Manning interested in Giants ownership stake
Mystics 2025 first-round pick's season in doubt after concerning injury
Marlins outfielder expected to miss remainder of 2025 season 
Tyrese Haliburton’s father addresses his incident with Giannis Antetokounmpo
Patriots' Austin Hooper explains what teammates can expect from HC Mike Vrabel
Falcons to pick up star WR's fifth-year option

Want more Union news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.