M. Farsi Columbus Crew Defender #23 Profile, Performance, and Career Highlights

Alright, Crew fans—if you’ve been tuned in this season, you can’t miss Mohamed Farsi, defender number 23. Farsi brings a mix of speed, sharp technical ability, and real endurance to the Crew’s back line.

He’s become a cornerstone for Columbus, holding things down in big moments and even chipping in on offense with timely assists and clever play.

At just 24, Farsi already helped Columbus win the 2023 MLS Cup and locked in a multi-year contract extension through 2027. That’s no small feat.

His rise from a promising young talent to a regular starter is all about hard work and steady growth in Major League Soccer. If you’re curious what makes Farsi so valuable—and why he might be a big part of the Crew’s future—well, you’re in the right place.

Mohamed Farsi’s Role and Playing Style

Farsi wears #23 for Columbus and plays with real discipline, smart positioning, and a knack for supporting both defense and attack. His tactical sense and technical touch really shape the Crew’s back line.

Defensive Abilities

You can trust Farsi to handle one-on-one battles. He times his tackles well, keeps fouls to a minimum, and lowers the risk for his teammates.

Farsi stays calm and doesn’t dive in. He keeps his balance against even the quickest attackers.

He follows opposing forwards with laser focus. When you watch, you’ll see him cut off passing lanes and use his body to protect the ball.

He jumps in and breaks up plays before they become real threats for Columbus.

Here’s a quick look at Farsi’s defensive numbers from recent MLS seasons:

Stat	Value
Tackles Won	57
Interceptions	36
Clearances	85
Duels Won	62%

Those numbers? They prove how steady Farsi is in Columbus Crew’s defense.

Positioning and Versatility

Farsi usually lines up as a right-back, but you’ll see him move to wing-back or even push higher up when the Crew need it. That flexibility lets Columbus change tactics on the fly.

He keeps a good distance from his teammates and the ball, staying ready to cover any gaps. His awareness and quick reactions help him support central defenders or slide wide as needed.

If you break down his heat map, you’ll spot him up and down the right side, always moving between defense and midfield. That constant activity adds balance and depth.

His ability to read the game and adjust mid-match? That’s a big reason the Crew trust him in different systems.

Contribution to Attacks

Even though he’s a defender, Farsi makes a real impact on Columbus Crew’s attack. He’s accurate with his passing when building from the back, setting up attacks with simple, smart distribution.

You’ll catch him making powerful runs up the right wing, overlapping the winger and giving the Crew extra width. He likes to whip in crosses or play short passes near the box, making himself a threat during transitions.

In the 2023 MLS season, Farsi picked up key assists and even scored, showing he’s not just about defense. He balances his defensive duties with attacking support and gives Columbus a dynamic edge on both sides of the ball.

Want more on his recent play? Check out his Columbus Crew profile.

Columbus Crew Tenure

Farsi’s time with Columbus Crew? It’s a story of grit, growth, and delivering when it counts most.

As a right-back, he quickly earned respect in the locker room and became a fan favorite at Lower.com Field.

2022 MLS Debut

Farsi made the jump from Crew 2 in 2022. That wasn’t just another promotion—he became only the second Crew 2 player to earn a full spot on the senior squad.

He brought pace and directness to the flanks. Game after game, he stretched the field and covered defensively.

Farsi adjusted to Major League Soccer from MLS NEXT Pro without missing a beat. He logged solid minutes and earned key starts, laying the groundwork for what was to come.

He became a reliable option for Coach Wilfried Nancy, especially in matches where the Crew needed a late spark.

Farsi’s 2022 Stats Table

Category	MLS 2022
Appearances	12
Starts	7
Assists	1
Minutes	670

2023 Breakout Season

By 2023, Farsi wasn’t just a promising rookie—he was an impact starter. He made 31 appearances, started 23 times, and became a fixture in the lineup.

His technical skill and recovery speed fit perfectly in Columbus’s aggressive style under Coach Nancy.

Farsi’s influence grew on both ends. He tallied five assists, always pushing forward to help the attack and hustling back to defend.

He stood out for his passing, balance under pressure, and willingness to get into the final third.

He helped keep the Crew among MLS’s best, week in and week out. If you want to dig into his 2023 season, check out the Columbus Crew’s 2023 highlights.

MLS Cup 2023 Triumph

Let’s be honest—you can’t talk about Farsi without mentioning the 2023 MLS Cup run. Columbus Crew lifted the trophy at Lower.com Field, and Farsi played a big role in the playoffs.

He made his MLS playoffs debut against Atlanta United and handled elite attackers with real composure. He stayed locked in, making key challenges when it mattered most.

In the Cup Final against LAFC, Farsi gave Columbus width and poise on the wing. After the final whistle, he joined his teammates and celebrated with the home crowd—his first MLS Cup title.

Want the full story? See the Columbus Crew’s MLS Cup recap.

Career Before Columbus Crew

Before landing in Columbus, Farsi’s journey took him from Canadian clubs to a stint overseas. He built his game as a right-back with experience at home and abroad.

Time at Cavalry FC

Cavalry FC fans will remember Farsi joining in 2020. He played as a defender, bringing energy and technical ability from day one.

That season was short, but Farsi started regularly and helped Cavalry stay near the top. His defensive work and quick runs up the right made him stand out in the CPL.

He earned the 2020 Canadian Premier League Best U-21 Canadian Player of the Year award.

Here are his key stats from Cavalry FC:

Season	Club	League	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2020	Cavalry FC	Canadian Premier League	18	1	2

Farsi used his time in Calgary to show off his speed, pressing, and knack for joining the attack.

Experience at Ain M’lila

After Cavalry, Farsi headed abroad to AS Ain M’lila in Algeria’s top league. The step up in competition was real—higher pace, more physical, tougher tactics.

He had to adapt fast. The expectations were high in the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1.

His time there was brief and he didn’t see much game action, but facing international competition gave him a new perspective.

He learned plenty, especially about defending against seasoned pros. That helped him grow up fast as a player.

Early Career in Canada

Farsi’s story starts in Montreal. He played youth soccer at clubs like Panellinios and CS Mont-Royal Outremont.

He also suited up for AS Blainville in the PLSQ, one of Quebec’s top semi-pro teams.

Those early years built his discipline and work rate—traits you see every match.

Coaches and teammates in Quebec remember Farsi as driven and always willing to go the extra mile. That mindset has fueled his steady rise as a pro defender.

Transition from Crew 2 to the First Team

Farsi’s journey with Columbus Crew features some real standout moments. You can trace his rise from MLS Next Pro to a championship run and a handful of individual honors.

Impact in MLS Next Pro

When Farsi joined Crew 2 in 2022, fans saw a player hungry to prove himself. He brought consistency and maturity to his defensive role every single week.

His ability to move the ball forward and recover quickly became a big asset for Crew 2.

2022 MLS Next Pro Stats

Category	Stat
Appearances	25
Goals	2
Assists	6
Key Passes per Game	1.2
Tackles per Game	2.7

Farsi’s blend of speed and controlled aggression made him a leader in the back. He rarely lost one-on-ones and challenged attackers to break him down.

He read the game well, pushing into advanced spaces and setting up chances for the offense.

Championship Success

Farsi’s impact was clear in the 2022 MLS NEXT Pro Cup, where Crew 2 took home the title. He started in big playoff matches, showing real composure under pressure.

His defensive work rate and quick recovery helped Crew 2 grind out close wins.

That championship run boosted confidence across the board. For Farsi, it proved he was a reliable defender ready for the next step.

When Crew decision-makers looked for first-team talent, Farsi’s playoff experience and proven quality stood out.

Recognition and Awards

Let’s talk about Crew 2 and Mohamed Farsi. His play didn’t just turn heads—it grabbed the spotlight across MLS Next Pro. In 2022, he landed on the MLS NEXT Pro Best XI, which really put him among the top defenders in the league.

That same year, he helped the team chase down multiple trophies. You could see what strong development pathways can do when you watch him.

But Farsi brought more than just defense. He showed leadership, sharp technical skills, and a knack for lifting up younger teammates. Coaches and fans noticed, and that buzz played a big part in his jump to the Columbus Crew’s first team.

If you want the full story, check out his contract extension with Columbus Crew that came right after those breakout performances.

International Experience

Mohamed Farsi’s international journey? It’s got ambition, roots, and a bit of a twist. Algeria noticed him, and his career includes stints with both youth and futsal squads.

Algeria National Team Call-Ups

Algeria called up Mohamed Farsi during a recent FIFA window. That’s a huge step—representing his family’s homeland while he plays club ball in the U.S.

He trained with the senior squad, which is rare for MLS defenders at that age. Sure, he hasn’t debuted in a competitive match yet, but just making the squad says a lot about his growth.

Farsi and a handful of international Crew teammates made headlines as a Columbus Crew group called up for national duty. Earning that call-up while shining for Columbus Crew? It just shows how valuable he’s become on the global stage.

You can catch more about this milestone in the Crew’s official announcement.

Youth and Futsal Representation

Before Algeria’s senior team came calling, Farsi spent his early days representing Canada in youth matches and futsal. Those futsal sessions? They really sharpened his ball control and quick decision-making.

He played for Canada’s futsal setup, picking up the skills that now define his game with the Crew. His youth career took him through academies in both Canada and Algeria, so he’s got a mix of North American and North African football DNA.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Level	Country	Years	Notable Achievements
Youth	Canada	2016-2018	National youth camps
Futsal	Canada	2018-2019	Futsal national matches
Club Academy	Algeria, Canada	2015-2019	Training, youth leagues

Those experiences gave Farsi a toolkit for both defense and attack—stuff that keeps him in the lineup for club and country.

Eligibility and Background

Farsi’s eligibility for Algeria? That comes straight from his family—he was born in Canada, but both parents are Algerian. So, he can pick either country for international play.

He hasn’t played a competitive match for Algeria’s senior team yet. That means, technically, he could still suit up for Canada if they come knocking.

His connections to Algeria have grown stronger after the recent call-ups and the relationships he’s built. Growing up in both Canadian and Algerian soccer systems shaped him into a player with versatility and broad experience.

Fans in both countries are paying close attention. Who knows? His next big appearance could be for either nation.

Notable Matches and Rivalries

Let’s dive into some of the matchups that have defined Farsi’s time with the Columbus Crew. As a defender, he’s faced high-pressure moments and come out the other side.

Debut Against Charlotte FC

Farsi made his Crew debut in a regular season showdown with Charlotte FC. Charlotte pressed early, and the Crew’s back line had to adjust fast. Farsi’s positioning got tested right from the jump.

In the first half, he tracked Charlotte’s wingers and made some crucial clearances. He even blocked a potential assist in the 24th minute.

Those early moves built trust with his teammates and set the tone for his role. He completed over 85% of his passes, didn’t miss a tackle, and won two big aerial duels. Fans really picked up on his calm under pressure, especially as the Crew held a slim lead late.

That debut set the foundation for his reputation as a steady hand at the back.

Stat	Value
Pass Accuracy	85%
Successful Tackles	3
Clearances	5
Aerial Duels Won	2

Key Performances Versus Atlanta United

The playoff clash with Atlanta United stands out. In round one, game two, Farsi made his MLS playoff debut. Atlanta’s fast attack and quick midfield transitions put everyone on edge.

Farsi read the game well, intercepting passes meant for Giorgos Giakoumakis. His tackles broke up Atlanta’s attacks and kept their shots down.

He rarely got caught out of position, even as the game sped up. With Farsi at right back, the Crew held Atlanta to just one goal in a tense contest.

Performances like that build confidence, and you could see Farsi wasn’t fazed by the playoff stage. He made a real impact as the Crew advanced. For the full scoop, check Mohamed Farsi’s playoff performance.

Highlights Against Philadelphia and Real Salt Lake

In the 2025 regular season, Farsi came up big against Philadelphia and Real Salt Lake. The Crew battled Philadelphia for a win after a weather delay threw everything off. Farsi’s defensive presence and energy never dropped, even with Philly pushing hard in the second half.

His tactical awareness was on display—he made key recoveries and joined the attack down the right side. He kept Philadelphia’s top scorers quiet and played a big role in keeping the Crew’s win streak over Philadelphia alive.

Against Real Salt Lake, Farsi racked up multiple interceptions and blocks. That kind of consistency against strong offenses just keeps adding to the trust fans and coaches have in him.

Encounters with New England Revolution

Farsi’s battles with New England Revolution always bring some fireworks. New England loves to attack down the wings and press hard, so Crew defenders can’t let their guard down.

Farsi handled those games with discipline and smart positioning. He matched up with New England’s fastest wide players, using his speed to cut off crosses and limit their chances.

What stands out? He times his tackles well and avoids unnecessary fouls, keeping things calm for the Crew’s back line.

In tight matches, he also pushed forward to help on the attack. That gave the Crew another option and kept the midfield in control. Every time the Crew faced New England, Farsi showed why he’s become such a trusted defender.

Contract and Future with Columbus Crew

Mohamed Farsi and the Columbus Crew have locked in a long-term partnership. That commitment brings stability and room for growth on both sides.

Multi-Year Contract Extension

Expect to see Farsi in black and gold for years. In February 2024, the Crew signed him—just 24 years old—to a new multi-year contract through 2027. The deal even includes a 2028 option, so the Crew can keep him around if they want.

President and GM Tim Bezbatchenko led the charge on this one. Farsi’s rising value made the extension a no-brainer after he helped Columbus win the 2023 MLS Cup and showed poise and playmaking from the back.

Now, with Farsi locked in, the Crew’s depth and stability at wingback look much stronger.

Farsi Contract Details

Season	Contract Status	Club Option
2024	Guaranteed	No
2025	Guaranteed	No
2026	Guaranteed	No
2027	Guaranteed	No
2028	Option	Yes

You can dig into the details on the Columbus Crew official site.

Long-Term Prospects

With this extension, you’ve got to expect Farsi stays at the center of Columbus’s defensive strategies. He’s young, but he’s got that skill set the team loves—mixing youth and experience on the back line.

Honestly, that’s a solid recipe for future success. When you look at his impact in both the regular season and the playoffs, it’s hard not to see Farsi as a lock for the starting lineup.

He seems ready to step up and take on more leadership. Bezbatchenko’s move tells you the club doesn’t just see Farsi as a quick fix.

They believe he can grow with the other young guys. If the Crew picks up that contract option for 2028, Farsi could end up building an eight-year legacy in Columbus.

Right now, he brings a strong defensive presence and creates chances from the wingback spot. The Crew looks like they’re planning around him for the seasons ahead.