M. Arfsten Columbus Crew Midfielder #27: Key Contributions and Season Highlights
If you’ve tuned in to the Columbus Crew lately, you can’t miss number 27, M. Arfsten, making noise in the midfield.
Maximilian Arfsten, once just a promising MLS SuperDraft pick, has really blossomed into a core player for the Crew. He’s chipped in with goals, assists, and a little bit of everything.
Fans and analysts have started to talk about Arfsten’s smart positioning and those sharp technical skills that keep the Crew’s attack humming.
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Columbus picked him 14th overall in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft, and he wasted no time making his presence felt. Arfsten showed from his MLS debut that he belonged, and he’s only gotten more influential since then.
Now, in his second year, he connects the Crew’s back line to the forwards in those tense, high-stakes moments.
Here’s a quick look at Arfsten’s recent stats for the Crew:
| Year | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| 2024 | 30 | 22 | 4 | 8 |
You can see why so many Crew fans have started calling him a mainstay. Want more on M. Arfsten and his journey? His profile with Columbus Crew tells the story.
Contents
Profile of M. Arfsten
When you watch Arfsten, you get a midfielder with a decorated youth resume, a solid college background, and the kind of versatility that lets him shift from winger to wing-back for Columbus Crew.
His high school and college run set him up for a quick splash in Major League Soccer.
Personal Background and Early Life
Max Arfsten was born April 19, 2001, in Fresno, California. He grew up in a family that really supported his soccer dreams.
He attended San Joaquin Memorial High School, which, if you know the area, has a strong soccer tradition.
While playing club soccer, Arfsten joined California Odyssey, a USDA league club where a lot of California’s top prospects cut their teeth. His family’s encouragement and early club success gave him the foundation for bigger things.
Soccer Development and Education
Arfsten started to rise at San Joaquin Memorial, but his next step came at the University of California, Davis. In the Big West Conference, he made an immediate impression as a freshman.
He landed on the Big West Conference All-Freshman team. That’s not easy.
At UC Davis, he kept sharpening his technical skills and learned to attack from the left wing. College coaches and scouts noticed, and soon he was on the MLS SuperDraft radar.
Notable Career Stats
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| College | UC Davis (Big West Conference) |
| Big West All-Freshman | 2019 |
| Columbus Crew Debut | 2023 |
| MLS SuperDraft Pick | 14th Overall |
| MLS Rookie Season Appearances | 12 |
| MLS Rookie Season Goals | 2 |
| Current Club | Columbus Crew |
Playing Style and Position
You usually see Arfsten out wide as a winger or wing-back, but he’s comfortable in midfield too. His game is built on pace, clever movement, and a willingness to press hard when the Crew lose the ball.
As a left winger, his technical skill and work rate make him stand out.
His versatility jumps off the screen. He’ll switch roles based on what Columbus needs—sometimes midfield, sometimes even higher up. This flexibility lets the Crew adapt on the fly and adds real depth to the squad.
He’s not shy about defending either, which is rare for a young guy who can attack.
For up-to-date stats and details, check out Max Arfsten’s Columbus Crew profile.
Professional Career Path
Max Arfsten’s journey has taken him from local youth fields in California all the way to making an impact in pro leagues. Each step—youth, college, pro—has shaped him into the midfielder he is today.
Youth and College Soccer
Arfsten started out in Fresno, playing for California Odyssey, a club known for developing young talent. At San Joaquin Memorial High School, he stood out with his quick feet and sharp game sense.
Coaches loved his ability to create chances and find space in tight midfields.
After high school, he went to UC Davis. In the Big West Conference, he became a reliable presence for the Aggies. His numbers showed he liked to attack, and he racked up goals and assists.
He earned postseason conference honors and made a name for himself nationally.
| Team/School | Years | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Odyssey (Youth) | — | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| San Joaquin Memorial (HS) | — | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| UC Davis (Big West) | 2019-2021 | 41 | 13 | 7 |
San Jose Earthquakes II Journey
After college, Arfsten joined San Jose Earthquakes II in MLS Next Pro. This league is where young pros get tested against some real up-and-comers.
In 2022, he played 24 matches, scored nine goals, and handed out six assists. Those numbers earned him league honors and plenty of praise for his energy.
He helped Earthquakes II make some noise in their debut season. Arfsten’s stats put him near the top of the squad, and first-team scouts took notice.
Key Achievements:
- 9 goals, 6 assists in 24 appearances (2022)
- Became a regular starter
- Helped team challenge more established sides
San Jose Earthquakes in MLS
After shining in MLS Next Pro, Arfsten got the call to join the San Jose Earthquakes’ senior roster. He had to fight for minutes in the top league, but he adapted to the faster, more physical pace.
He debuted and gave the midfield a boost, bringing fresh legs and some creative spark in select games.
While he didn’t start every match, Arfsten made the most of his chances. That confidence and experience set him up for the 2023 MLS SuperDraft.
2023 MLS SuperDraft and Entry Into Major League Soccer
M. Arfsten’s jump to Major League Soccer came at just the right time for him and the Crew. As a top draft pick, he made a quick impact and wasted no time getting into the squad.
Draft Selection and Signing
Columbus Crew grabbed Maximilian “Max” Arfsten with their first-round, 14th overall pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. At that point, Arfsten had already made waves for his play with San Jose Earthquakes II.
He signed his first pro contract with Columbus for 2024, with team options for 2025 and 2026. That showed the Crew believed in him right away.
Arfsten didn’t have to wait in the reserves—he jumped straight to the main roster, which is a big deal for a draft pick.
His signing made headlines locally. It really underscored how the Crew want to build with young talent.
For more on his draft and signing, check this Columbus Crew report.
Draft Facts:
| Year | Pick | Team | Previous Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 14 | Columbus Crew | San Jose Earthquakes II |
Transition to Columbus Crew
Arfsten didn’t just make the roster—he earned a regular spot in preseason and started getting minutes right away. He put on the #27 shirt and played as a midfielder, quickly showing why the Crew drafted him.
He scored key goals as a rookie and fit right into Wilfried Nancy’s system. His adaptability, work rate, and smart decisions stood out.
By the end of his first season, Arfsten helped Columbus clinch the 2023 MLS Cup. He made steady progress and became a core piece of the squad.
You’ll find more analysis at Mad About College Sports.
Columbus Crew Career Highlights
Max Arfsten has quickly become a big-time contributor for Columbus Crew since the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. You can see his impact in big games, his stats, and his contract situation.
Key Matches and Game Performances
Arfsten broke into the Columbus Crew lineup in 2023, making a splash with goals in his first few appearances.
He played key roles against rivals like Cincinnati and Charlotte FC. In his rookie year, he got 12 appearances and started a few times against top clubs—Atlanta United, Austin FC, you name it.
In the big fixtures, Arfsten made a difference on both ends. He stepped up against Inter Miami CF and Real Salt Lake, chipping in assists and applying pressure on the flanks.
Guys like Patrick Schulte and Sean Zawadzki have benefited from his creative play, especially when the Crew needed something extra in tight spots.
You can’t help but notice Arfsten’s cool head in high-pressure games. He always seems ready for the moment, even against tough defenses.
Notable Contributions and Statistics
Arfsten’s rookie year showed steady production. He notched 2 goals and a handful of assists, hinting at his future as a regular contributor.
He even earned a spot on the 2025 MLS All-Star team.
Here’s a look at his stats:
| Season | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| 2024 | 18 | 8 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
Arfsten’s quick rise from prospect to starter says a lot about his skill and work ethic. He even played a part in the United States national team’s Gold Cup win, with two assists against Trinidad.
Contract Details and Extensions
Columbus Crew grabbed Arfsten with the 14th overall pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. They didn’t waste any time—he signed a standard rookie contract right away.
That deal included club options tied to his performance and appearances. The Crew wanted flexibility, but they also set it up to reward Arfsten when he delivered in MLS matches.
By the middle of 2024, Arfsten’s value on the field started to climb, and contract extension talks kicked off early. Public records show the negotiations have focused on multi-year deals and a bump in salary.
You can see on Transfermarkt that his market value keeps rising, which says a lot about his demand in MLS. The Crew see Arfsten as a big part of their future, and they’re not shy about it.
They’ve watched him grow, whether he’s starting or coming off the bench to change a game.
MLS Achievements and Honors
Let’s talk about Max Arfsten’s impact with Columbus Crew. It’s pretty obvious—he’s delivered key contributions in the club’s biggest moments.
Playoff wins, cup runs, even an all-star nod—all of that in just his first couple of seasons.
MLS Cup and Playoff Participation
In just his second year, Arfsten helped the Crew reach a huge milestone with their 2023 MLS Cup run. He played a bunch of regular season games and started enough to make a difference in the playoffs.
Take a look at these regular season stats:
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| 2024 | 30 | 22 | 4 | 8 |
Fans know him for his versatility. He bounces between midfield and wing-back, and that adaptability really shines when the pressure’s on.
He’s handled elimination games with composure, and that’s exactly what you want in a Crew player chasing postseason glory.
Leagues Cup and International Tournaments
Arfsten’s growth didn’t stop with MLS. He got a taste of international action in the Leagues Cup, a tournament that pits MLS clubs against Liga MX powerhouses.
When the coach called his number, Arfsten brought energy and tactical discipline to the field. He faced some of the toughest teams in North America.
The Crew didn’t bring home the Leagues Cup, and they missed out on the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, but Arfsten’s minutes in those matches mattered. He learned to handle different play styles, and that’s not nothing.
That experience, even if short, helped him grow. It boosted his value to the team and showed he could handle tournament pressure.
MLS All-Star Selection
Let’s not forget the big one—Arfsten’s first MLS All-Star selection in 2025. That’s a huge deal for a young player.
Getting named an All-Star means a lot to Crew fans. It’s a nod from the league, saying, “Hey, this guy’s making a difference.”
He stood shoulder to shoulder with stars like Diego Rossi. Representing the Black & Gold on a big stage really cements his status as one of the Crew’s brightest young stars.
National Team Experience
Take a good look at how Max Arfsten’s journey with the U.S. national team has shaped his career. Those USMNT call-ups, his first Gold Cup, and the feedback from coaches have all been big steps.
U.S. Men’s National Team Call-Ups
Max Arfsten earned several call-ups to the U.S. Men’s National Team after breaking into MLS. You might remember his first camp in June, when he joined up with other Crew teammates.
At just 24, Arfsten stood out as one of the Crew players getting international attention.
His ability to play both midfield and left wing made him a smart pick for the national squad. Coaches praised his tactical discipline and relentless work rate during training.
That led to his call-ups for big tournaments. He’s gone from MLS minutes to regular USMNT appearances—a steady climb for sure.
Recent USMNT camp call-ups:
| Year | Event | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | June Camp | Midfielder |
| 2025 | Gold Cup | Midfielder/Wing-Back |
2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup Performance
Arfsten made his first big international splash at the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He landed on the USMNT roster and logged key minutes, especially against Trinidad and Tobago.
Fans watched him step up, defending tough and pushing the pace down the wing. In the group stage, he kept things steady—smart passes, good defensive work, the basics done right.
During the penalty shootout win over Costa Rica, Arfsten kept his cool. He helped move the ball and played a part in two build-ups that led to goals.
| Match | Minutes Played | Assists | Key Passes | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Trinidad and Tobago | 74 | 0 | 2 | 3 |
| vs Costa Rica (Quarterfinal) | 90 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
International Impact and Recognition
Arfsten playing in the Gold Cup? That really put him on the map, both at home and abroad. After his tournament showings, his profile just took off—you could feel the buzz from fans and coaches who don’t usually watch MLS.
Analysts started talking about how quickly he kept up with the speed of the international game. The USMNT coaching staff actually praised his discipline and his sharp instincts on the field.
Former UC Davis coaches chimed in, too, pointing out how much he’s grown since college and how he doesn’t shy away from high-pressure moments. When he faced teams like Costa Rica and Trinidad and Tobago, people around the national team couldn’t stop talking about him.
Those games? They felt like a real turning point for Arfsten’s international career. He showed everyone—club and country—that he belongs at this level.
Want to dig deeper into Arfsten’s Gold Cup and national team journey? Check out NBC4i’s Gold Cup roster report and his CONCACAF Gold Cup performance.
