Hannes Wolf, New York City Football Club, Midfielder, #17: Player Profile & Impact
You probably know Hannes Wolf as the Austrian midfielder in the #17 shirt for New York City Football Club, but honestly, his influence runs deeper than just a number. At 26, he brings a wealth of experience from Europe’s top leagues, and he’s quickly settled in as a steady presence in MLS. Hannes Wolf lines up as a versatile midfielder for NYCFC, chipping in with creativity in attack and putting in the work defensively.
You can see his fingerprints all over NYCFC’s build-up, whether he’s drifting out wide or popping up centrally. Since he arrived from Borussia Mönchengladbach, Wolf has embraced New York’s style and carved out a spot as a key figure in the team.
His contract runs through 2027, with an option for 2028, so NYCFC has a solid piece to build around for a while.
Before MLS, Wolf grew up in Austrian football, played in the Bundesliga, and picked up international minutes with Austria’s national team. He trained at Red Bull Salzburg’s academy, which has churned out plenty of European standouts.
That background shapes how he plays now—always balancing technical skill with tactical awareness every time he steps on the pitch.
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Hannes Wolf’s Role at New York City Football Club
Wolf gives NYCFC a creative spark in midfield, bringing technical skill and the flexibility to play different roles up front. His time in Austria and Germany sharpened his game, and now he’s still learning the physical and tactical side of MLS.
Position and Playing Style
You’ll usually spot Wolf as an attacking midfielder or out wide. At NYCFC, he links the midfield with the front line, always looking comfortable carrying the ball under pressure.
He came through the Red Bull Salzburg system, where pressing and quick transitions are the norm. You can see that in how he moves off the ball and presses high up the field.
He combines short passes with teammates, fitting right in with a possession-focused approach.
Wolf doesn’t score a ton, but he helps in other ways. His best qualities are ball retention, vision in the final third, and creating chances for teammates.
When he’s on his game, you notice how he keeps the attack ticking and the tempo steady.
Jersey Number and Squad Status
Wolf wears No. 17 for NYCFC. That number’s become part of his identity since he joined from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2023.
He’s a regular first-team player, not just a depth piece.
His contract runs through 2027 with an option for 2028, so the club clearly sees him as part of the long-term plan. That kind of security lets him settle in and build some continuity here.
Here’s a quick look at his recent stats for NYCFC:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 21 | 2 | 3 | 1,245 |
| 2024 | 28 | 3 | 5 | 1,987 |
These numbers show he’s regularly involved, even if he’s not putting up top winger stats just yet.
Versatility Across Midfield and Attack
Wolf’s value really shows when NYCFC changes shape. He can play as a winger on either side, an attacking midfielder, or even tuck in as a secondary playmaker.
That flexibility lets the coaches adjust tactics without burning subs.
He adapts well, too, which helps with squad rotation during the long MLS season. When injuries or suspensions hit, Wolf slots into different roles and keeps the lineup balanced.
Sometimes he’s out wide in a front three; other times, he drops deeper in midfield. This adaptability makes him a handy piece for a club that likes to experiment.
Wolf bridges the gap between direct wingers and possession-based midfielders, making him a link between styles. His versatility means he’s almost always in the matchday squad.
2025 Season Performance and Key Matches
This year, you’ve seen Wolf step into a bigger role for NYCFC, especially after Santiago Rodríguez left. The Austrian winger, who came up at Red Bull Salzburg before heading to Borussia Mönchengladbach and then NYCFC, has mixed strong runs of form with some inconsistent stretches.
Goals Against TOR, CHI, ATL, and NSH
Wolf has made a difference in matches that really mattered for NYCFC. Against Toronto FC (TOR), he got his first goal of the season with sharp movement in the box and a precise finish. That goal gave NYCFC a boost in a close game.
His goal against Chicago Fire (CHI) on May 25 stands out. He controlled an overhit cross, found space with a quick dribble, and curled a shot past the keeper. That snapped a nine-game drought and got his confidence back on track.
Atlanta United (ATL) saw Wolf at his most dangerous. He scored twice in March by pouncing on deflections and turnovers in the box. Both finishes showed his sharpness and positioning.
The Nashville SC (NSH) match might be his defining moment so far. NYCFC trailed 2-0, but Wolf scored twice in the second half to rescue a draw. One came from a slick passing sequence and a finish off the post; the other, a volley after a corner. Those goals proved he can deliver when the pressure’s on.
Statistical Overview and Contributions
Wolf’s stats show both promise and a bit of inconsistency. By midseason, he’d already topped his 2024 goal total, scoring six times in league play and adding an assist. He became NYCFC’s second scoring option behind Alonso Martínez.
Here’s a quick look at his 2025 numbers:
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLS 2025 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 1,200+ |
He tends to score in bunches, then go quiet for a while. That streaky form makes you wonder about his consistency, but it also shows he can change a game when he’s on.
Notable Game Highlights
A few moments really sum up Wolf’s 2025. In the home opener against Orlando City, he headed in the winner and set the tone for the season.
Against Atlanta, his brace showed off his instincts in the box—always alert to loose balls.
The Chicago match highlighted his technical skill. He adjusted to a tough cross and struck it cleanly into the corner. That goal felt important, not just for the result but for his confidence after a tough stretch.
His two goals at Nashville are hard to forget. He linked up with Keaton Parks for one, then finished a volley off a corner for the equalizer. Against a tough home team, Wolf showed he can step up when NYCFC needs him most.
He once starred at Red Bull Salzburg before heading to the Bundesliga, and now these flashes in MLS show why NYCFC rates him so highly. The next step? Turning those flashes into steady output.
Transfer to NYCFC and Contract Details
Hannes Wolf came to New York City FC after several years in European football. Moving from the Bundesliga gave him a fresh start in MLS, and his versatility and experience stood out right away.
Signing from Borussia Mönchengladbach
Wolf arrived in New York after a run with Borussia Mönchengladbach, where he played in both league and European matches. He made 69 appearances for the German club, scoring five goals and adding three assists, including in the UEFA Champions League.
Before Germany, he made his name at Red Bull Salzburg with 22 goals and 22 assists in 89 matches, winning three Austrian Bundesliga titles and a domestic cup. He also played for RB Leipzig and Swansea City, proving he could adjust to different leagues.
At just 24, Wolf’s transfer felt like a smart move for NYCFC. They wanted someone who could play multiple attacking roles, either in the center or out wide. He joined in January 2024, bringing proven pedigree and still having plenty of years ahead.
Career Stats Before NYCFC
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Competitions Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Bull Salzburg | 89 | 22 | 22 | Austrian Bundesliga, Europa League |
| RB Leipzig | 5 | 0 | 0 | Bundesliga |
| Swansea City (loan) | 19 | 2 | 1 | EFL Championship |
| Borussia Mönchengladbach | 69 | 5 | 3 | Bundesliga, Champions League |
Contract Duration and Terms
Wolf signed a deal with NYCFC through 2027, with an option for 2028. That long-term contract gives the club a foundation as he enters his prime.
The transfer was a free move—no fee reported between Borussia Mönchengladbach and NYCFC. For a club that often bets on younger talent, bringing in Wolf on these terms balanced experience and cost.
His deal fits NYCFC’s strategy of targeting players with top European experience who are still young enough to adapt to MLS. For supporters, it means seeing a player committed to the club for several years, not just a quick stopover.
Statements from David Lee
David Lee, NYCFC’s sporting director, talked up Wolf’s versatility and work ethic when they announced the signing. He called him a creative and direct midfielder who could help out defensively, too.
Lee pointed to Wolf’s experience in the Bundesliga, Champions League, and Europa League, saying those games prepared him for the pace and physicality of MLS.
He also mentioned that Wolf had other options in Europe but chose NYCFC. That says something about the club’s ambition and appeal—a place where players see a chance to grow long-term.
From Lee’s comments, you get the sense they see Wolf as more than just a starter. They want him to help set standards for younger teammates and lead as NYCFC chases trophies again.
Career Background Before New York City FC
You can trace Hannes Wolf’s journey through steady progress in Austria, a tough but valuable spell in Germany, and a short loan in England that added more layers to his game. His career before MLS brought both highs and challenges that shaped him for a central role at NYCFC.
Achievements at Red Bull Salzburg
Wolf came up through the Red Bull Salzburg academy after early stints at SC Seiersberg and SV Gössendorf. If you look back at his time in Salzburg, it’s hard not to notice how quickly he turned into a key figure.
He played as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, which gave the club some much-needed flexibility in the final third.
He picked up several domestic titles—two Austrian Bundesliga championships and the Austrian Cup. Salzburg also got a boost from his performances in Europe, where he played in both the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Youth League.
Here’s a quick look at his Salzburg numbers:
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian Bundesliga | 49 | 16 | N/A |
| Austrian Cup | 9 | 5 | N/A |
| European Competitions | 28 | 2 | N/A |
*Assist data wasn’t always tracked consistently back then.
Wolf built a reputation at Salzburg for timing those late runs into the box and finishing with real confidence. He thrived in a system that pushed pressing and quick transitions—classic Red Bull stuff.
Bundesliga Experience
In 2019, Wolf signed with RB Leipzig. You’d think that move would’ve launched his career in the Bundesliga, but things didn’t go as planned.
He suffered a serious leg injury while playing for Austria’s U21s, and that injury really slowed him down. The setback limited his chances in Leipzig, so he had to look elsewhere for playing time.
He joined Borussia Mönchengladbach on loan in 2020 and reunited with coach Marco Rose. You could see he felt comfortable in Rose’s system, and eventually the move became permanent in 2021.
His time at Gladbach had its ups and downs—some flashes of creativity, but honestly, not a ton of consistency.
Bundesliga Summary
- RB Leipzig: 5 appearances, 0 goals
- Borussia Mönchengladbach (loan): 32 appearances, 3 goals
- Borussia Mönchengladbach (permanent): 25 appearances, 1 goal
The Bundesliga threw Wolf into higher-level competition. Even when his minutes dropped, he adapted to new tactical demands and worked harder on defense.
Stint at Swansea City
In January 2022, Wolf headed to Swansea City on loan in the EFL Championship. If you’ve followed his career, this move showed he wasn’t afraid to step into a tough, physical league.
He racked up 19 appearances and scored 2 goals, including a big one in a 4–0 win over Cardiff City. That goal mattered—a lot, actually, since it helped Swansea secure their first league double over their rivals.
At Swansea, Wolf mostly played as a wide midfielder. You’d see him track back defensively but still find ways to help in attack.
His time in England didn’t last long, but it definitely sharpened him up for the pace of MLS.
Wolf’s journey through Austria, Germany, and England gave him a wide range of experiences before he landed at New York City FC. Each stop tested him in different ways and shaped the midfielder you see now in MLS.
International Experience and Honors
There’s something to be said for a midfielder who brings club experience along with years of international development. Hannes Wolf built his foundation with Austria’s youth teams and later earned recognition by winning domestic and European titles with Red Bull Salzburg.
Austria Youth National Teams
Wolf started out with Austria’s U16 side in 2015 and picked up three caps. He moved up quickly to the U21s, where he became a consistent performer from 2017 to 2020.
In 15 matches, he scored eight goals—pretty impressive for a midfielder, honestly.
At the 2019 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, he scored in Austria’s opener but then suffered that major leg injury. That setback limited his senior national team chances, but it also showed just how central he’d become to Austria’s youth setup.
He hasn’t made an appearance for Austria’s senior team yet. Still, his youth international career highlights his technical skill and natural attacking instincts.
His performances at that level helped him land moves to RB Leipzig and later Borussia Mönchengladbach before he joined New York City FC.
Austria Youth Stats
| Team | Years | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austria U16 | 2015 | 3 | 0 |
| Austria U21 | 2017–2020 | 15 | 8 |
Major Titles and Awards
Wolf picked up most of his honors at Red Bull Salzburg, where he developed after leaving SC Seiersberg. He won two Austrian Bundesliga titles in 2017–18 and 2018–19, and he also lifted the Austrian Cup in 2018–19.
Before breaking into the senior team, he helped Salzburg’s youth side win the 2016–17 UEFA Youth League. That tournament gave him a taste of top European competition and let him test himself against elite academies.
These titles marked the high point of his European success before he moved to the United States.
He hasn’t added any silverware yet with New York City FC, but his résumé already shows championships that reflect his impact during Salzburg’s dominant run.
Club Honors
- UEFA Youth League: 2016–17
- Austrian Bundesliga: 2017–18, 2018–19
- Austrian Cup: 2018–19
Personal Profile and Off-Field Insights
You really get a better sense of Hannes Wolf when you look past what he does on the field. His Austrian background, his years in European football, and his physical profile all shape how he plays for New York City FC—and maybe how you see his role in MLS.
Early Life and Hometown
Hannes Wolf was born on April 16, 1999, in Graz, Austria. Graz is Austria’s second-biggest city, known for its universities and strong football culture.
Growing up there gave him early exposure to competitive youth systems.
You can see the influence of Austrian football in his style. He picked up technical skills and tactical awareness before heading abroad.
His journey included stops at Red Bull Salzburg, where he broke into pro football, and later Borussia Mönchengladbach in Germany.
Wolf never played college soccer in the US, but his European football education was basically the equivalent of a top academy.
That background probably explains why he settled in so quickly after joining New York City FC in 2023.
His hometown roots still matter to him. Graz has produced several Austrian internationals, and Wolf continues that tradition.
You can trace his composure and decision-making on the ball all the way back to those early days in a city where football is always around.
Physical Attributes
At 26, Wolf sits right in his athletic prime. He stands 5-foot-9, and you can tell he’s got that mix of quickness and balance that’s so useful in tight spots.
His build lets him take a hit and still keep the ball under control. You notice his versatility every time he covers ground—he can slot in as a winger or slide into an attacking midfield role, and he’s not shy about using his acceleration to get by defenders.
He’s got the stamina to press high up the pitch, which honestly fits New York City FC’s style perfectly.
Here’s a look at his physical profile:
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 9 in |
| Weight | 154 lbs |
| Preferred Foot | Left |
| Primary Position | Midfielder |
| Secondary Position | Right Winger |
These traits show why he keeps contributing in MLS. He doesn’t really depend on sheer strength; instead, he leans on agility, balance, and a good bit of technique to make things happen.
