Philadelphia Union Secures Olivier Mbaizo with Contract Extension Through 2026
November 21, 2024On November 21, 2024, the Philadelphia Union announced a contract extension for defender Olivier Mbaizo, ensuring his presence with the team through the 2026 season, with options for 2027 and 2028.
Mbaizo has been with the Union since 2018, initially joining from Philadelphia Union II, where he developed before becoming a key part of the team's defense.
The 27-year-old Cameroonian defender has been recognized for his consistent contributions to the Union's defense, as noted by Sporting Director Ernst Tanner.
Tanner praised Mbaizo's speed, agility, and improving passing accuracy, which have been vital to the team's performance.
Since joining the Union, Mbaizo has played 112 matches in MLS, starting 90 of those games, and has accumulated a total of 13 assists.
During the 2024 season, Mbaizo made 21 appearances, starting in 12 matches and contributing two assists, while achieving a career-high passing accuracy of 82.1%.
On June 19, 2024, he reached two significant milestones by recording his 12th career MLS assist and making his 100th MLS appearance against FC Cincinnati.
In the past season, Mbaizo played in 30 matches across all competitions, significantly contributing to the team's success in the Leagues Cup semifinals.
He played a crucial role in the Union's Leagues Cup campaign, participating in all but one match, helping the team advance to the semifinals.
Internationally, Mbaizo has earned 14 caps for Cameroon and was part of the final roster for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, making him the first active Union player to participate in a World Cup.
Mbaizo faced challenges in relocating his family to the U.S. due to federal immigration laws, which had led him to consider transferring to another team.
The Philadelphia Union are currently in a transitional period, having missed the playoffs for the first time since 2017, finishing 12th in the Eastern Conference.
Summary based on 5 sources
Get a daily email with more MLS stories
Sources
mlssoccer • Nov 21, 2024
Philadelphia Union sign Olivier Mbaizo to contract extensionThe Philadelphia Inquirer • Nov 21, 2024
Union sign Cameroonian defender Olivier Mbaizo to multiyear contract extensionDeadspin • Nov 21, 2024
Union D Olivier Mbaizo agree to contract extensiontheprint • Nov 21, 2024
Union D Olivier Mbaizo agree to contract extension