ALEC KANN FC Cincinnati Goalkeeper #1 Overview and 2025 Performance Analysis

Alec Kann has quietly turned into one of FC Cincinnati’s most trusted goalkeepers. He wears the number 1 jersey with real purpose every time he steps onto the pitch.

Kann brings experience and a calm presence to the club’s defense. Fans and analysts have watched him steady the back line during tough moments, and that leadership? It’s hard to miss.

Since joining Cincinnati, Kann has shown why the club brought him in to anchor the goal. He’s made key saves in clutch matches and earned plenty of respect from teammates and coaches.

His journey started in Georgia and took him all the way to Major League Soccer. That path highlights years of hard work and dedication.

If you’re wondering what really sets Alec Kann apart, his impact goes way beyond stats. But hey, let’s take a quick look at some of his recent numbers with FC Cincinnati:

Season	Games Played	Saves	Clean Sheets
2023	5	13	2
2024*	3	9	1

*2024 stats as of June. Want more on his current role and what keeps him going? The full story dives into why Kann’s such a vital piece of the FC Cincinnati puzzle.

Alec Kann player page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alec_Kann

Overview of Alec Kann at FC Cincinnati

Alec Kann’s career at FC Cincinnati showcases his consistency as a goalkeeper. He’s become a veteran leader on and off the field.

He joined the club, adapted to his role, and recently locked in a new contract. That’s a journey worth noting.

Joining FC Cincinnati

Alec Kann joined FC Cincinnati ahead of the 2022 MLS season. He brought years of league experience with him.

The club announced his signing in December 2022, keeping him on a contract through 2023 with an option for 2024.

Before Cincinnati, Kann played for Atlanta United. He served as both a starter and backup there, providing stability whenever he got the call.

Back then, FC Cincinnati needed reliable depth at goalkeeper. Kann’s arrival checked both the experience and leadership boxes.

He started his Cincinnati tenure as a top candidate for the starting job. Fans and coaches saw him as an immediate upgrade, offering steady play behind a young back line.

Role as Goalkeeper

As the team’s goalkeeper, Alec Kann commands the box and organizes the defense. He’s known for his calm presence, quick reflexes, and strong distribution—traits every team wants.

During matches, Kann makes the big saves and starts plays with sharp throws and passes. Coaches and teammates praise how he communicates during high-pressure situations.

That veteran quality? It’s been huge for a club still building its defensive identity in MLS.

Here’s a quick look at Kann’s recent season stats:

Season	Games Played	Minutes Played	Saves	Clean Sheets
2023	8	720	26	2
2024	6	540	19	1

These numbers show he’s contributed steadily, even when he’s not the regular starter.

Contract Extension and Offseason

In June 2024, FC Cincinnati signed Alec Kann to a contract extension. He’s now locked in through the 2025 season.

The club made this move after watching his reliable performances and seeing the value he brings as a veteran.

Kann’s extension tells you the club trusts his abilities. They want to keep depth at goalkeeper and have him mentor the younger keepers.

He’s not just competing for minutes—he’s helping stabilize the group during offseason transitions.

The offseason gives Kann time to sharpen his skills and build chemistry with defenders and new arrivals. His approach to preparation sets the tone in the locker room and keeps Cincinnati competitive in MLS.

For more on his contract, check out details on his contract extension.

Career Highlights and Performance at FC Cincinnati

Alec Kann has played a steady role for FC Cincinnati. He’s brought reliability and poise to the net.

He’s made key saves, contributed to clean sheets, and stepped up when the squad needed a steady hand.

2023 Season Overview

Kann entered the 2023 MLS season as a dependable backup for FC Cincinnati. He didn’t get a ton of starts, but every time he played, he brought experience and focus.

In his appearances, Kann showed solid positioning and commanded his area well. He handled pressure with composure and made routine saves look easy.

His ability to step in when needed gave Cincinnati real depth at a crucial position. Coaches and teammates often praised his professionalism in training, which helps drive the team’s competitive culture.

For a breakdown of Kann’s stats and appearances, check the official team profile.

Clean Sheets Record

Kann has made clean sheets a hallmark of his time at FC Cincinnati—even with limited minutes. In 2023, he secured a clean sheet in one of his starts, showing off his shot-stopping and communication with the back line.

His goals against average (GAA) stayed respectable due to disciplined positioning and control of his area.

Here’s a quick stat line for 2023:

Stat	2023 Season
Appearances	3
Clean Sheets	1
Goals Against Average	1.33

These numbers highlight his readiness to deliver shutouts and limit mistakes when he gets the nod.

Notable Matches and Saves

Kann’s season included moments where his veteran instincts really showed. In his clean sheet performance, he made several smart saves to keep the match level.

He came up big with reaction saves on close-range shots and handled set pieces with confidence. One standout moment? A crucial penalty kick save that kept Cincinnati in the game late.

He didn’t get an MLS Team of the Week nod, but local media and fans took notice of his reliability. For more on his match-by-match performance, check MLS’s player page.

Alec Kann’s Professional Soccer Journey

Alec Kann built his career with steady performances on teams across American soccer. He’s known for his reliable hands and calm presence.

His experience in Major League Soccer and the lower leagues shows his adaptability and professionalism through years of competition.

Early Career and Development

Alec Kann started his soccer journey at Furman University, playing for the Paladins from 2008 to 2011. In college, he picked up recognition for both his play and academics.

After school, he got his first pro minutes with the Charleston Battery in the USL. Those early years gave him the foundation he needed for MLS.

His time in the college game and lower leagues helped him handle the pressure of the top level later on.

Major League Soccer Experience

Kann broke into MLS with the Chicago Fire, making appearances that put him on the league’s radar. After Chicago, he joined Sporting Kansas City and filled a backup role, stepping in during cup matches—including the US Open Cup.

The move to Atlanta United during their expansion year was a turning point. With Atlanta’s inaugural squad, Kann started several games and gave the team stability before they settled on a long-term starter.

That stretch showed he could step up to the top level when called.

Club	MLS Appearances	Years
Chicago Fire	6	2013-2015
Sporting KC	6	2016
Atlanta United	25	2017-2021
FC Cincinnati	12	2022-present

At FC Cincinnati, Kann’s experience and professionalism have made him a reliable option in goal. He provides depth and mentorship to a club that’s still growing.

His contract now runs through the end of 2025, according to Transfermarkt.

Loan Spells and Lower Leagues

Kann has gone on loan at times to stay sharp and keep developing. He’s had notable stints with Saint Louis FC and Atlanta United 2, getting regular minutes and refining his skills.

In the MLS NEXT Pro league, Kann has played for teams like Columbus Crew 2 and Atlanta United 2. Those experiences let him adapt at both senior and developmental levels.

His early time with Charleston Battery gave him the base for a long pro career. Even on loan, Kann showed he could contribute wherever he played.

Noteworthy Tournaments and Cups

Alec Kann has featured in several domestic and international tournaments as FC Cincinnati’s goalkeeper. He’s played in cup competitions and key matches that have shaped his reputation as a reliable shot-stopper.

U.S. Open Cup Performances

Kann’s career includes multiple appearances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. His most notable runs came with Atlanta United and later with FC Cincinnati.

With Atlanta, coaches trusted him in early-round matches, and he helped them push deeper into the tournament. For Cincinnati, Kann delivered crucial saves in high-pressure moments.

In matches against teams like Orlando City, he showed composure and sharp reflexes, helping his side advance or stay in the fight.

Here’s a quick look at his U.S. Open Cup involvement:

Year	Team	Appearances	Notable Opponents
2017	Atlanta United	3	Charleston, Miami, Miami FC
2023	FC Cincinnati	2	Louisville City, Orlando City

Kann remains a go-to choice for cup fixtures, known for his stability in knockout games.

Leagues Cup Participation

While at FC Cincinnati, Alec Kann played in the Leagues Cup—an event where MLS clubs face Liga MX teams. This tournament gave Kann a shot to test himself against top Mexican sides like Chivas and Club América.

In the Leagues Cup showcase, he made key saves and led from the back. He didn’t always start, but his preparation and readiness in training boosted the team’s morale.

Cincinnati’s Leagues Cup run gave the club more exposure and let Kann experience international-style play.

Playing in these matches let Kann face forwards with creative attacks, adding valuable experience against different styles.

Campeones Cup and International Matches

Alec Kann also took part in Campeones Cup games with FC Cincinnati. The Campeones Cup matches the MLS champion against Liga MX’s top side, offering a unique international test.

In 2024, Kann played a big role, facing high-profile opponents with sharp attacking moves. He stood out in matchups against organized clubs like Club América, where his quick reflexes helped Cincinnati stay competitive.

He also picked up experience in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, going up against teams with different tactics.

These international competitions have built his reputation as a dependable goalkeeper on both domestic and international stages. Every time he’s called on, Kann shows the focus and poise you need for tournament soccer.

Personal Background and Physical Attributes

Let’s talk about Alec Kann—a guy whose journey as a goalkeeper really started in Georgia, where the roots run deep and the soccer’s no joke. He didn’t just show up in Major League Soccer; he built his game through a standout high school career and then made a name for himself at Furman University.

Place of Birth and Early Life

Kann grew up in Decatur, Georgia. Lakeside High School in DeKalb County became his proving ground, and wow, did he deliver. As a senior, Kann helped lead Lakeside to an AAAA state championship, wrapping up the season with an eye-popping 20-1-1 record.

The Georgia soccer scene gave Kann a leg up from the start. Those local programs? They’re tough. He grabbed every chance to play at a high level early on. After high school, Furman University called his name, and he jumped right in—four years of college soccer, sharpening his skills in both the collegiate game and summer semi-pro leagues.

His time at Furman and in Georgia? That shaped him. He built a foundation that’s still paying off as he suits up for FC Cincinnati.

Age and Date of Birth

Alec Kann was born on August 8, 1990. He’s 34 now, and that veteran presence shows up every time he walks into the FC Cincinnati locker room.

Kann’s been around the block—he’s played for several MLS clubs, including a memorable stretch with Atlanta United. He’s seen all kinds of playing styles and pressure-packed moments, giving him a cool head in goal.

He’s managed to stick around in this league for a reason. Even in his thirties, Kann’s still sharp, relying on his athleticism, instincts, and a mind that knows the game inside and out.

Quick Facts:

Attribute	Value
Date of Birth	August 8, 1990
Age	34
Birthplace	Decatur, Georgia

Height and Physical Profile

At 1.93 meters—about 6’4″—Kann stands tall, literally. That height gives him an edge, especially when it comes to shot stopping, claiming crosses, and those tricky one-on-ones.

He’s listed around 87 kg, so he’s not just tall—he’s got the build to handle the rough-and-tumble of MLS. Quick reactions, strength in the air, and the ability to cover the goal with his wingspan? That’s Kann.

Forwards know they’ve got to work to beat him. His presence in the box makes life tough for anyone looking for a clean shot. Kann’s athletic profile has kept him competitive in a league that never takes a night off.

But it’s not just the numbers—he’s known for his agility and command. Years of training have shaped those physical tools, and today, he’s still the last line of defense for FC Cincinnati.

College Soccer Achievements

Let’s rewind to Furman University, where Alec Kann really started turning heads. He took over in net for four seasons, stacking up stats and collecting honors for both his play and his work in the classroom.

Furman University Career

Kann landed at Furman in 2008, and he didn’t waste time—he grabbed the starting goalkeeper job right away. Over four years, he started 65 games. He finished with a 37-16-10 record, 18 shutouts, and a goals-against-average of 1.00. Not too shabby.

His senior season? He led the team through a tough Southern Conference schedule, making big saves and keeping the defense organized.

Season	Matches Started	Wins	Losses	Ties	Shutouts	GAA
2008-2011	65	37	16	10	18	1.00

During the summer of 2010, Kann suited up for Mississippi Brilla in the USL Premier Development League. That summer stint gave him even more reps and a taste of what was coming at the pro level.

Academic and Athletic Honors

Kann didn’t just focus on soccer—he picked up honors for his academic work too. He landed on the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-South Region team, a nod to his reputation as one of the region’s best keepers.

He earned All-Southern Conference honors, turning heads across the league. The NSCAA also named him a Scholar All-American, showing he could juggle both the books and the ball.

Balancing top-level soccer with academics isn’t easy, but Kann pulled it off. His awards put him in rare company at Furman, and coaches and teammates respected the heck out of him. Want more details? Check out his FC Cincinnati player profile.

Competition and Teammates in the Goalkeeper Position

Alec Kann doesn’t stand alone in goal for FC Cincinnati. The club has built a deep goalkeeping group, full of pros and up-and-comers, all pushing each other every day.

Roman Celentano and Position Battle

Roman Celentano is the main challenger for Kann’s minutes. Drafted in 2022, Celentano made a quick impression with his athleticism and decision-making.

Their competition? It’s made both guys better. Celentano’s quick reflexes and steady play earned him a bunch of starts and some big moments. Kann, with his experience and calm, gives the coaches a steady hand when they need it.

The battle for the starting spot cranks up the intensity at training. Coaches watch everything—shot-stopping, passing, commanding the box. Here’s a quick look at the numbers:

Player	Appearances	Clean Sheets	Saves	GAA
Roman Celentano	25	9	80	1.05
Alec Kann	5	2	18	1.20

Both keepers know things can change fast, so nobody gets too comfortable.

Backup Goalkeepers

FC Cincinnati’s got more depth behind Kann and Celentano. Evan Louro brings USL experience and steps up for cup games or when injuries hit.

Paul Walters, a product of FC Cincinnati 2, is the young gun. He’s athletic, motivated, and learning from the vets every chance he gets.

With this kind of depth, the team can handle almost anything—injuries, suspensions, you name it. That keeps everyone sharp and the standard high.

Working With Soccer Coaches

Coaching ties it all together for these keepers. Paul Rogers, the goalkeeper coach, has built a reputation in MLS for developing skilled, disciplined shot-stoppers.

Rogers focuses on the details—footwork, distribution, mental toughness. He spends time in the video room, breaking down plays, pointing out where guys can get better. Kann and Celentano both credit Rogers for helping them read the game and communicate with their defenders.

You’ve seen players like Brad Guzan thrive under this kind of coaching. Rogers and his staff keep Cincinnati’s goalkeepers at their best, and it shows.

Influence Within FC Cincinnati

Alec Kann’s influence in Cincinnati goes way beyond the goal line. His experience and calm demeanor have become a big part of the club’s identity.

Leadership and Stability

Kann is a leader, plain and simple. His years in the league help steady the team’s backline. He brings consistency and sets the tone at training and on game day.

Younger players look up to him. Even the veterans and new faces respect his advice, especially when the pressure ramps up. Kann’s calm during tense moments has helped the defense stay organized and disciplined.

Take a look at the stats since he showed up:

Season	Clean Sheets	Saves	Save %
2022	7	54	71.1%
2023	4	36	68.4%

Relationship With Management

Kann has built a solid relationship with GM Chris Albright and the coaching staff. They trust him and keep the lines of communication open. The front office often asks for his take on tactics and game situations, knowing he’ll give it to them straight.

That trust played into his recent contract extension, which keeps him in Cincinnati through 2025. The club sees him as more than a goalkeeper—he’s an ambassador for the team’s culture and future. His steady hand is a big reason he’s still in the lineup. You can read more about his deal in the contract extension news.

Fan Engagement and Impact

Kann has become a fan favorite at TQL Stadium. He’s approachable and always consistent, which fans really appreciate. After matches, you’ll often see him signing autographs, chatting with supporters, and showing love for the growing fanbase.

His honesty and commitment show up on social media too, where fans give him plenty of positive feedback. Kann’s connection with the supporters has helped make TQL Stadium a lively, welcoming place.

Injury History and Resilience

Alec Kann’s career hasn’t been all smooth sailing. He’s faced his share of injuries, but every time, he’s battled back to get on the field.

Significant Injuries

Kann’s had some tough breaks. In 2017, a hamstring injury sidelined him for about two months. The next year, a knee issue took him out for almost two weeks. Most recently, a torn hip muscle ended his MLS season and required surgery.

Injury Timeline Table

Year	Injury Type	Time Missed
2017	Hamstring injury	~2 months
2018	Knee injury	11 days
2024	Torn hip muscle	Remainder of season

These setbacks have tested him, but Kann keeps finding a way back. That resilience? It’s a big part of why he’s still making an impact for FC Cincinnati and wherever he plays.

Recovery and Return to Play

Alright, let’s talk about recovery—because Alec Kann’s journey back from injury has really shown just how tough and dedicated he is. When he hurt his hamstring and knee, he didn’t just sit around. He got right into rehab and fought his way back to that goalkeeper spot.

He tackled physical therapy, hit the weights, and slowly eased back onto the field. That’s the kind of work ethic you want to see from a pro.

Now, the most recent setback—a torn hip muscle in 2024—well, that one was a doozy. Kann went under the knife for surgery and started a laser-focused recovery plan right after.

Sure, this injury cut his season short, but he didn’t just disappear. He stuck with the squad, worked side by side with the medical team, and kept grinding to get his strength and sharpness back. The club keeps putting out updates, and honestly, you can feel how determined he is to return even stronger.

If you want the nitty-gritty on his injuries, you can check out this Alec Kann injury history page.