'Looking forward to finishing the season strong' - Darlington Nagbe announces retirement following 2025 season with Columbus Crew

The technically gifted midfielder, known for his composure, ball retention, and passing accuracy, has spent the past six seasons with Columbus after joining in 2020. With the Crew, Nagbe added two MLS Cup titles (2020, 2023) to those won with Portland (2015) and Atlanta (2018), becoming one of just 10 players to lift the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy four times. 

"After years of incredible memories, I'll be finishing my career at the end of this season. I'm more than grateful for my family, for all my teammates, coaches, teams, staff members, supporters, and friends that have helped me along this journey," Nagbe shared on social media.

Since being selected second overall in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft by the Portland Timbers, Nagbe has compiled impressive career statistics that include 38 goals and 48 assists across his regular-season appearances. Nagbe has represented the United States, including winning the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He earned his American citizenship in 2015 after immigrating from Liberia as a child during the First Liberian Civil War, eventually settling in Lakewood, Ohio.

“Darlington is one of the best people to represent the Crew and Major League Soccer over our 30-year history, both as a player and a person,” the Haslam Sports Group said to ColumbusCrew.com in a statement. “His talent, leadership, work ethic, and toughness are only matched by his team-first mindset, endearing personality, and passion for his family and giving back to the community.

“It’s truly special for Darlington to end his career in Ohio, where he’s created so many lasting memories for our Club and fans. He’s one of the greatest players to wear the Black & Gold, and he’ll always be an important member of our Crew family.”

Before his professional career, Nagbe starred at the University of Akron under then-coach Caleb Porter, helping the Zips win the 2010 NCAA Championship and earning the Hermann Trophy as college soccer's best player that same year. The connection with Porter would prove significant throughout Nagbe's career, as they later reunited at both Portland and Columbus.

A fifth MLS Cup championship would further cement Nagbe legacy as one of the league's all-time greats and provide a fitting conclusion to a career marked by consistent excellence and team success.

“Columbus: Thank you for welcoming an Ohio kid home and for the opportunity to represent you for the past six seasons!” Nagbe said on social media. “Winning two MLS Cups, lifting trophies and playing in front of you, friends and family has been a dream come true! Looking forward to finishing the season strong and what’s ahead of us!”