Kai Wagner (born 15 February 1997) is a German professional footballer who plays as a left-back for the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.
Club career
SSV Ulm 1846
Ahead of the 2015–16 season, Wagner signed his first professional contract at 18 years old with SSV Ulm 1846 competing in the Oberliga Baden-Württemberg, the fifth tier of German football. Wagner made 32 appearances and scored one goal, helping earn SSV Ulm the championship title and promotion to the fourth tier Regionalliga.
Schalke 04
In summer of 2016, Wagner secured a transfer to FC Schalke 04 II competing in the Regionalliga West, the fourth tier of German football.
Würzburger Kickers
Wagner playing for Würzburger Kickers
In June 2017, Wagner secured a transfer to Würzburger Kickers competing in the 3. Liga, the third tier of German football after being relegated at the conclusion of the 2016–17 season.
Philadelphia Union
In February 2019, Wagner signed with Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer for an undisclosed transfer fee. Wagner would emerge as one of the best left backs in MLS, contributing 30 appearances and 8 assists in his first season with the Union.
The 2020 season improved on the 2019 season, despite the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kai contributed to the Union's advancing to the semi-finals of the MLS is Back tournament including his first goal for the Union in a 2–1 win over Inter Miami FC. The Union finished the season with the best league record earning the team's first trophy, the 2020 Supporters' Shield. Wagner contributed 14 starts, one goal, and two assists in the Union's championship season.
In January 2021, Wagner signed a new contract with the Union through the 2022 season, with an option for 2023. In August 2021, Wagner was selected to the 2021 MLS All-Star Game versus the Liga MX All-Star team.
American MLS Supporters Shield 2020 Philadelphia Union |
MLS Best XI 2022-11-02 | MLS Team Of The Week 2022-08-29 | MLS All-Star 2022-07-12 | MLS All-Star 2021-08-04 |
2015-2016 |
2016-2017 |
2017-2019 |