On Wednesday night, the Philadelphia Union traveled to Yankee Stadium in hopes that they would be able to help their cause in the ongoing playoff race. One of the biggest contributors in that win saw themselves inch closer to Union history, as defender Kai Wagner’s assist to Jakob Glesnes in the second half saw him equalize Sebastian Le Toux’s record for assists all-time.
Kai Wagner has been an influential member of Jim Curtin’s side since joining the club, and will continue to do so for as long as he is a member of the squad.
Importance of Kai Wagner
The 27-year-old German has been a member of the Union since 2019, joining from German side Würzburger Kickers for an unknown fee. Since joining the Union, Wagner has been one of the best left backs in the MLS, especially when on the attack. His left foot has been known to become lethal, contributing to goals, and more importantly, lots and lots of assists. In fact, Wagner has contributed for a total of 50 assists in his time with the Union, which has equalized Sebastian Le Toux’s total for the most in team history.
His assist totals per season go as follows:
2019 – 8
2020 – 2
2021 – 7
2022 – 15
2023 – 7
2024 – 11
New Record Holder Soon?
The Union have a total of five matches remaining until their 2024 regular season concludes, and Wagner will be looking to get that one single assist in one of those five matches. He will have an opportunity on Sunday, as the Union host rival D.C. United at Subaru Park, in what will be a big match for the MLS playoff picture. The two sides are level on points with 33, and they will both be looking to pick up the crucial points. At the moment, the Union hold the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, but multiple other clubs are chasing them, making this match even more important.
If the Union want to prove they deserve a playoff spot, Kai Wagner will have to continue to play at a top level, making it a high possibility he will hold the record by the end of the season!
Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
