It's a special BIMBO birthday as we celebrate defender Kai Wagner.
Wagner turns 24 today and has made 44 regular-season appearances (all starts) since joining Philadelphia in 2019. This past season he scored his first goal in a 2-1 victory over Miami (July 14) and logged his first multiple assist game when he added two helpers in a 5-0 win vs. Toronto (Oct. 24).
In his two seasons with the club, Wagner has been one of the league’s top defenders, making MLS’ Team of the Week three times in that span. In 2019, having eight assists in 30 games played ranked him first amongst MLS defenders. His eight assists as a defender also tied Sheanon Williams’ all-time single-season club record. That same season he tied an all-time Union record with five blocked shots in one match (June 2 vs. Minnesota).
Prior to joining the Union, Wagner signed his first professional contract with SSV Ulm 1846, before becoming a member of Bundesliga club Schalke 04. He then signed with German side Wurzburger Kickers where he remained until signing with the Union.
