M. Arfsten Columbus Crew Midfielder #27: Key Player Profile and Career Highlights
Folks, if you’ve been tuning in to Columbus Crew matches lately, you might’ve spotted a fresh face making some noise in the midfield. M. Arfsten, rocking the #27 kit, is quickly turning heads as a promising midfielder for the Crew. The Crew grabbed him with the 14th pick in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft, and let me tell you—Arfsten jumped right into the action and has already notched key goals for the club.
Coaches and fans are buzzing for good reason. Arfsten isn’t just a warm body out there; he’s starting games, setting up goals, and showing off that versatility every modern soccer team craves.
He’s not the flashiest guy on the pitch, but the way he puts in the work—it stands out. You can see the hunger.
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Let’s just take a quick look at Max Arfsten’s 2023 numbers with Columbus Crew:
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Starts | 3 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 2 |
Curious about the Crew’s new midfield engine? Getting to know Arfsten’s story and style might just change how you watch this team.
Contents
Profile of M. Arfsten
Maximilian Arfsten has built a reputation as a steady left-footed midfielder for Columbus Crew. His road from Fresno to Major League Soccer? Grit, schooling, and a stacked youth career in California.
Biography and Early Life
Max Arfsten grew up in Fresno, California, born April 19, 2001. He was surrounded by soccer from day one, sharpening his skills in a family that loved the game.
He attended San Joaquin Memorial High School, a spot known for balancing academics and sports. Those early training sessions gave him an edge over the local competition.
Back in Fresno, Arfsten started building the habits and fire that would fuel his soccer dreams. California’s soccer scene definitely shaped his determination and his style on the field.
Soccer Development and Education
Arfsten’s foundation really took shape with the California Odyssey. That local academy molded his game from 2010 all the way to 2019.
He made the leap to college soccer at UC Davis, joining the Aggies in the NCAA ranks. In the Big West Conference, Arfsten wasted no time—he snagged a spot on the Big West Conference All-Freshman Team, showing he could make an impact right away.
Balancing classes and soccer, he stood out for his focus and solid play.
Table: Key Achievements
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| High School | San Joaquin Memorial |
| Youth Club | California Odyssey (2010-2019) |
| College | UC Davis Aggies |
| Conference Honors | Big West All-Freshman Team |
That quick rise through youth and college ball set him up for the big leagues.
Playing Style and Position
You’ll usually spot Arfsten out wide as a left winger or tucked into midfield, sporting number 27 for Columbus. He’s got a strong left foot and serious versatility.
Coaches lean on him to cover ground, spark the attack, and hustle back on defense.
His game’s all about smart movement, crisp passing, and sharp vision. Toss in some speed and awareness, and he’s a handful on the flank or when the Crew break forward.
He’s already shown he can handle MLS speed, bagging goals and assists as a rookie. For more numbers, check his official Crew profile or the latest stats at Transfermarkt.
Professional Career
M. Arfsten’s path to the Columbus Crew? It’s classic American soccer: steady progress, hard work, and a knack for adapting at every turn. He came up through California, made his mark with San Jose Earthquakes II, and then jumped into MLS with the Crew.
Early Clubs and San Jose Earthquakes II
You can trace Arfsten’s roots to California’s youth soccer scene. He played for California Odyssey and then UC Davis, where he found the net 9 times in 39 college matches.
After college, Arfsten landed at San Jose Earthquakes II in MLS NEXT Pro. He adapted fast, showing off as both a winger and midfielder, and scored several times in the 2022 season.
MLS NEXT Pro is all about giving young players a shot, and Arfsten made sure scouts noticed.
Notable Early Career Stats
| Club | Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UC Davis Aggies | NCAA | 39 | 9 | — |
| San Jose Earthquakes II | MLS NEXT Pro | — | — | — |
MLS SuperDraft and Entry into Major League Soccer
Draft day always brings drama, and in 2023, Columbus Crew called Arfsten’s name at pick 14. The Crew’s brass liked his versatility and technical chops.
He made his MLS debut March 25, 2023, against Atlanta United, and—how about this—scored in a 6-1 rout. That year, he played in 12 league matches, started three, and chipped in with 2 goals and a couple of assists. He didn’t need much time to settle in.
Columbus Crew Rookie Year (2023)
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Starts | 3 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | — |
Time with San Jose Earthquakes
Before he hit the MLS stage, Arfsten was grinding it out with the San Jose Earthquakes’ setup. With San Jose Earthquakes II, he trained under pros and played against some of the best up-and-comers.
He didn’t crack the first team, but those sessions and matches sharpened his skills. That stretch gave him the technical edge he needed to step up to a club like Columbus.
He made a mark in MLS NEXT Pro, scoring and assisting in games that mattered. That consistency built his confidence and got him ready for the big time. For the latest stats, swing by his official MLS profile.
Columbus Crew Journey
Take a look at Arfsten’s time with Columbus Crew, and you’ll see a player on the rise. From his first match to signing a new deal, every step shows more trust from the coaches.
Transfer to Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew picked Arfsten 14th overall in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. That’s a clear sign—they believed in his upside.
Coming out of Fresno and California Odyssey, Arfsten arrived ready for the pro grind. He came in as a midfielder and wing-back, bringing energy and a blue-collar work rate.
Early on, he made noise in training. The coaches noticed. Fans started asking, “Who’s this kid?”
Making the roster? That was just step one. Arfsten impressed in preseason and started earning minutes before the regular season even kicked off.
Notable Matches and Game Highlights
If you caught his debut in March 2023 against Atlanta United, you saw him score in a 6-1 Crew win. That’s how you announce yourself.
He got into 12 matches, started three, and became a go-to option off the bench. His aggressive but smart style gave Columbus a tactical edge, especially in tight games.
As the season rolled on, Arfsten kept building momentum. He finished with two goals and some timely assists, making big plays when the Crew needed them most.
Now, he’s earned a spot as a regular starter, and fans are taking notice of how much he’s grown Columbus Crew Journey.
Key Contributions and Statistics
Let’s break down his numbers. In his rookie year, Arfsten played 12 games and started three. He scored twice and dished out some key assists.
Here’s a quick stat sheet from his time in Columbus:
| Season | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| 2024* | 24 | — | — | — |
*2024’s still going, but Arfsten’s now a regular starter and leads Crew midfielders in a bunch of key categories. Every stat shows more minutes, more trust, and a bigger role.
Contract Extension and Multi-Year Agreement
Because of his steady play, the Crew didn’t just hand out compliments—they locked Arfsten up with a multi-year contract extension.
That’s a real sign of faith. Multi-year deals go to guys you want in your core.
For Arfsten, this contract is both a reward and a challenge. The Crew want him to be a big part of their future contract extension.
Now, he can focus on his game, knowing he’s a key piece for Columbus. With his role growing, expect Arfsten to keep making noise for seasons to come.
MLS Competitions and Achievements
When you see Max Arfsten’s name on that lineup card, you know you’re getting a midfielder who’s ready to make things happen. His record? Steady progress, big moments, and a guy who’s just getting started in Major League Soccer and beyond.
MLS Cup and Leagues Cup Participation
Max Arfsten landed with Columbus Crew thanks to the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. The moment he stepped onto the field for his debut, he wasted no time—scoring against Atlanta United in that wild 6-1 rout.
That early goal? It set the tone. Throughout the regular season, you could spot him in key matches, helping drive Columbus toward the MLS Cup playoffs.
His tactical sense and relentless work rate really became assets as the Crew dug deeper into the postseason. The guy just doesn’t quit.
In the Leagues Cup, Arfsten brought a mix of composure and spark to every match. He didn’t just hold possession—he pushed the attack forward, always looking for the next move.
When knockout matches got tense, he’d step up with a clutch pass or a timely defensive play. That’s tournament football, folks.
Columbus owed a good chunk of its midfield consistency in the Leagues Cup to Arfsten’s disciplined style. He made sure the Crew stayed organized and dangerous.
Key MLS Stats (2023–2025):
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | MLS Cup Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 20 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| 2024 | 27 | 3 | 6 | 4 |
| 2025 | 15* | 1 | 2 | Ongoing |
*As of June 2025
Concacaf Champions Cup and International Matches
In the Concacaf Champions Cup, Arfsten got thrown into the fire against international opponents. He faced teams from Liga MX and beyond, getting a taste of faster, more physical soccer.
He took charge of midfield organization and kept transitions quick—just what you need in those knockout rounds.
You might remember his showings in men’s international friendlies, too. He hasn’t earned a U.S. Men’s National Team cap just yet, but he’s repped Columbus against some big-name clubs from other confederations.
Those matches sharpened his tactical awareness and made him even more valuable back home. Every minute on the pitch tested his ability to read the game and control the pace.
List of Key 2024 International Matches:
- Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals vs Tigres UANL
- Friendly vs Club América
- Champions Cup Group Stage vs Saprissa
MLS All-Star Selection and 2025 All-Star Game
In 2025, Arfsten snagged his first MLS All-Star selection. That’s a big deal for any player, but especially for someone just three seasons in.
He earned it, plain and simple—putting in consistent shifts, defending hard, and racking up memorable assists for the Crew.
The 2025 MLS All-Star Game put Arfsten center stage with the league’s best. He logged valuable midfield minutes, juggling both attacking and defensive duties in front of a massive North American audience.
For a young guy like Arfsten, that spotlight is more than just an honor—it’s a chance to grow against top competition.
During the All-Star Game, you could see his calm on the ball and his willingness to press high. He looked right at home among the league’s elite.
That All-Star nod says it all—he’s making noise as a midfielder on the rise.
Key Matches and Opponents
M. Arfsten’s influence in midfield has shaped some of the Crew’s biggest moments this season. You can see his impact not just in stats, but in the way he stands out against top MLS rivals and international clubs.
Performance Against MLS Rivals
When Arfsten lines up against Atlanta United, LAFC, or Inter Miami CF, you know the stakes are sky-high. He’s notched three goals and three assists in 16 starts during the 2025 campaign—often against playoff-bound teams.
His sharp awareness in matches versus Charlotte FC and Cincinnati has changed the tempo for Columbus. Arfsten’s control and quick passing have led to key plays, especially when the Crew needed to crack stubborn defenses.
At Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium, Arfsten’s versatility helped Columbus keep the ball under pressure. That’s not easy in a hostile environment.
Here’s a look at some of his contributions against MLS rivals:
| Opponent | Goals | Assists | Key Passes | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta United | 1 | 0 | 3 | 90 |
| LAFC | 0 | 1 | 2 | 86 |
| Cincinnati | 1 | 0 | 2 | 78 |
| Charlotte FC | 0 | 1 | 1 | 82 |
| Inter Miami CF | 1 | 0 | 2 | 90 |
These games push his movement, positioning, and first touch to the limit. The Crew’s playoff push depends on moments like these, when Arfsten steps up against the league’s best.
Notable Encounters with International Clubs
Arfsten’s run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup this season brought him face-to-face with top Liga MX sides. These games let you see his adaptability—handling new styles and intense atmospheres.
Against Liga MX teams, Arfsten’s discipline in midfield really shines. He covers ground, breaks up plays, and starts counters with smart passes.
He showed those traits during the Crew’s away leg at Q2 Stadium, keeping the team organized even with the crowd against him.
His best moments include tough tackles, clever passes into dangerous areas, and calm under pressure. International matches, plus the growing fan buzz, have put a spotlight on his value as Columbus looks for new heights.
For a full breakdown of his match logs, check out the Columbus Crew’s official site.
Honors and Recognition
M. Arfsten has caught plenty of eyes for his standout performances, picking up both individual and team honors with Columbus Crew. His midfield play stands out for technical skill, playmaking, and consistency in big games.
Individual Accolades
You’ve seen Arfsten’s name pop up in league chatter, especially after his 2025 MLS All-Star Game selection. That first All-Star nod is a real milestone—one that means respect from coaches, players, and fans.
Back in college, he earned All-CMAC first team honors and league MVP, piling up 20 goals and 21 assists as a junior. Those numbers really set the stage for his pro career.
In MLS Next Pro, Arfsten didn’t just score and assist—he made the Team of the Matchday several times. He’s got a knack for delivering in clutch moments.
Career Individual Stats (selected seasons)
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| College (Jr.) | 20 | 20 | 21 |
| MLS | 34 | 5 | 7 |
| MLS Next Pro | 18 | 7 | 8 |
Team Successes with Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew’s recent success has Arfsten’s fingerprints all over it. Since joining in 2022, he’s played big roles in important matches, chipping in assists and steady midfield play.
Crew fans won’t forget the playoff run where Arfsten’s calm and vision helped break down defenses. Whether he started or came off the bench, he kept the energy high and made his teammates better.
His chemistry with Diego Rossi led to big moments—match-winning passes, late goals, you name it. Arfsten’s contributions helped Columbus finish strong and head into the playoffs with real momentum.
With honors like his 2025 MLS All-Star selection and playoff heroics, Arfsten’s earned his spot among Crew favorites and league standouts. That growing list of accolades shows just how much he’s developed as a reliable midfielder for Columbus.
National Team Involvement
Maximilian Arfsten’s rise with Columbus Crew has put him on the radar for United States international soccer. His journey from MLS standout to national team call-up says a lot about his impact and future.
U.S. Men’s National Team Participation
You’ve watched Arfsten progress with the Crew, but his leap to the U.S. Men’s National Team is a whole new chapter. In 2025, he got the call for the June camp, joining Patrick Schulte and Sean Zawadzki.
That selection shows real trust from the coaches in his ability and tactical smarts.
During the latest Gold Cup, Arfsten swapped his Crew kit for the stars and stripes, logging key minutes in midfield. He faced tough opponents—Trinidad, Saudi Arabia, Haiti—and played both winger and midfielder.
He chipped in with big assists that helped the U.S. reach the knockout stage, making an instant impression on the international scene.
National Team Appearances
| Year | Matches Played | Assists | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 5 | 2 | 0 |
For Crew fans, seeing a homegrown player suit up for the U.S. is a proud moment. It really highlights the depth of talent coming out of MLS.
You can dig deeper into his national team action at Columbus Crew’s official news release and local sports coverage.
International Impact and Potential
Arfsten’s time with the U.S. Men’s National Team isn’t just a personal highlight—it’s a shot to prove himself at a higher level. His versatility—playing wing-back, winger, or central midfielder—gives the team fresh options.
You notice how he reads the game and supports both attack and defense, showing maturity beyond his years. Positive results against international opponents show he’s not just adjusting—he’s making things happen.
Scouts and coaches have praised his decision making, passing, and relentless work rate. As international tournaments roll on, Arfsten’s role could grow, and a lot of folks are watching to see if he becomes a regular for the U.S. in big competitions.
When you watch him, you see steady improvement and sharp focus. That bodes well for his future in international soccer, no doubt.
Off-the-Field Contributions
Max Arfsten’s influence goes beyond the field. He’s helping shape the Columbus community and inspiring young players in both Columbus and back home in California.
Community Engagement and Public Presence
You’ll catch Max Arfsten supporting local causes every season. He shows up at soccer clinics, school events, and charity functions with the Columbus Crew.
His easygoing attitude makes him a fan favorite at these events.
In Columbus, Arfsten stands out for his work with youth outreach and fundraising. At meet-and-greets, he signs autographs, shares advice, and encourages kids to get active.
During Crew food drives and neighborhood projects, you’ll spot him pitching in with his teammates.
Here’s a quick look at his recent community involvement:
| Event Type | Participation | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Youth Clinics | Coaching and mentoring | Columbus |
| School Visits | Motivational speaking | Columbus |
| Charity Events | Fundraising, volunteering | Columbus |
| Soccer Camps | Guest sessions | California |
Influence on Youth and Soccer Development
Arfsten grew up in California and now calls Columbus home. His story really reaches young athletes in both places.
He shows up at youth soccer programs, rolling up his sleeves to teach teamwork and perseverance. You can see how his path—from college soccer out west to the pros—gives kids a real example to follow.
In Columbus, he jumps into local youth leagues. He helps out at training camps and answers questions from young players.
These kids watch how hard he works. They talk about his dedication and try to copy it.
Parents, coaches, and club organizers all seem to agree—Arfsten’s coaching tips and upbeat attitude boost kids’ confidence. That’s especially true for those just starting out.
If you look at his commitment to mentoring, it’s really no shock that Arfsten landed a spot on the 2025 MLS All-Star roster. He’s making a difference on and off the field.
Related Personalities and Team Dynamics
You can just feel the chemistry building between M. Arfsten and some of the club’s brightest young stars. He’s growing as a player because he connects with his teammates and knows exactly where he fits in on game day.
Collaboration with Diego Rossi
Diego Rossi brings attacking skills that open up chances for guys like Arfsten. If you catch them in action, you’ll see Rossi drifting wide or pushing up, dragging defenders along with him.
That movement leaves space for Arfsten to slip into open spots and join the attack. It’s not just about individual talent, either.
They coordinate their runs, especially when the game flips into a counterattack. Rossi spots Arfsten with sharp passes, letting him charge at defenses or sneak into the box for a shot.
Their communication in training jumps out. They read each other’s moves and cover for each other when they lose the ball.
These habits keep the attack lively and tough to predict. For fans, it means more creative plays and more chances to break through defenses.
Role within Columbus Crew Squad
Alright, let’s talk about Arfsten’s role with Columbus Crew. He doesn’t just sit back and hold the midfield—no, he jumps into transitions, pushes forward on the attack, and presses high up the pitch when the Crew win the ball.
You’ll notice his work rate stands out. He’s always hustling, connecting the dots between defense and offense, and honestly, that tactical sense is just fun to watch.
Here’s a quick look at his main 2023 season stats with Columbus Crew:
| Matches | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
To make it in Columbus, Arfsten has to stay on his toes. Sometimes, he slides out to wing-back, or he tucks in centrally if the game calls for it.
Coaches hand him big moments because he brings pure energy and sticks to the plan. You can see why they trust him.
Team vets see Arfsten as a guy who reads the game’s rhythm, which helps the Crew keep their shape when things get hectic. If you’re following the Crew, his presence just gives the squad that extra bit of depth and flexibility.
