Philadelphia Union have signed midfielder Kevin Kratz, ahead of the roster freeze deadline. The 29-year old Kratz, who came through the Bayer Leverkusen system, was a free agent, having last played for SV Sandhausen during the 2015-’16 season.
“Kevin provides us valuable depth in multiple positions across our midfield, “ offered Union Sporting Director Earnie Stewart. “His experience and mentality are a good addition to our group.”
Kratz has appeared in 277 career matches, 122 of them coming from the Bundesliga first and second division respectively. Kratz accumulated four goals and 13 assists in his time there. Kratz would ultimately spend three seasons with Bayer 04 Leverkusen's reserve team, then joined Alemannia Aachen and would later transfer to Eintracht Braunschweig. With his new club, Kratz won promotion to the Bundesliga in 2013. After the 2013–14 Bundesliga season, Kratz transferred to SV Sandhausen.
Philadelphia Union are back in MLS action on Saturday, Sept. 17 against Portland Timbers. The Union return home to Talen Energy Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 16 against Orlando City SC. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. Single game and group tickets are still available by visiting PhiladelphiaUnion.com/tickets or by calling 1-877-21-UNION.
PLAYER PROFILE
Name: Kevin Kratz
Position: Midfielder
Dual Nationality: Germany
Birth Date: Jan. 1, 1987
Birthplace: Eschweiler, Germany
Height: 5-8
