MATT MIAZGA FC Cincinnati Defender #21 Strengthens Backline for 2025 Season

Matt Miazga brings leadership and a gritty edge to FC Cincinnati’s backline, ever since he arrived in 2022.

He wears number 21 and, honestly, wasted no time becoming a defensive anchor for the squad. Fans and analysts? They’ve watched Miazga turn Cincinnati’s defense into one of the toughest in MLS.

Opponents have to rethink their approach when Miazga’s on the field because he reads the game so well and just knows when to step in with a smart tackle.

He’s reliable, experienced, and you can see why he’s a locker room favorite. If you want to go deeper into his journey or check out his stats, here’s his official FC Cincinnati profile.

Here’s a quick look at his stats with the club so far:

Season	Matches Played	Goals	Assists
2025	7	0	0

You can find even more numbers on his MLS stats.

Profile of Matt Miazga

Matt Miazga lines up at center-back for FC Cincinnati, rocking the number 21.

He’s got a real presence out there—versatile, reliable, and a defender you just trust in the big moments.

Full Name and Personal Background

Born Matthew Miazga on July 19, 1995, he grew up in Clifton, New Jersey.

He started his soccer journey locally, and it didn’t take long for folks to notice his talent.

Miazga’s family has Polish roots, and that bicultural upbringing shaped his outlook and personality.

He kicked off his career with the New York Red Bulls academy. That disciplined home life? It helped him climb the ranks fast.

His American and Polish influences still play a big part in who he is, on and off the pitch.

The guy’s journey—from a youth player to an MLS standout—rests on strong family support and a work ethic that doesn’t quit.

Age, Height, and Physical Attributes

Miazga is 29 years old and stands at 1.93 meters, or about 6’4″.

That height gives him a real edge in the air, whether he’s defending or going up for set pieces.

He’s built for the position—strong, athletic, and tough to beat in a challenge.

Miazga uses his strength and timing to win duels and clear out danger.

Here’s his basic profile:

Attribute	Value
Age	29
Height	1.93 m (6’4″)
Position	Center-Back
Club	FC Cincinnati

His physical style fits right in with Cincinnati’s defensive system.

Not many strikers can outmuscle him, honestly.

Citizenship and Heritage

Miazga holds dual citizenship—United States and Poland.

That’s opened doors for him internationally, but he chose to represent the United States men’s national team.

He was born in the U.S., but he’s always kept a strong connection to his Polish heritage.

That mix shapes how he approaches international matches and even community events.

Fans from both countries keep a close eye on his career, and he’s proud of his roots.

Player Agent and Representation

Miazga’s got a professional football agent who handles his contracts and career moves.

This agent negotiates with club execs, scouts opportunities abroad, and offers advice on the big decisions.

With solid representation, Miazga has made some key moves—like leaving New York Red Bulls, heading to Europe, and then coming back to MLS with Cincinnati.

His agent makes sure he lands the right contracts, including his current deal with FC Cincinnati through 2025, with an option for 2026.

That relationship really matters for a player with his experience.

FC Cincinnati and Club Overview

FC Cincinnati is on the rise in Major League Soccer.

They’re making noise, both on the field and off, with a fan base that’s as passionate as they come.

History of FC Cincinnati

The club started out in the United Soccer League back in 2016.

They drew huge crowds right away, then made the jump to MLS in 2019 after smashing USL attendance records.

Those first MLS seasons? Tough sledding, for sure.

But once key players and staff arrived, things started to turn.

By 2023, Cincinnati had its best season yet and started earning a real reputation.

The club built its climb on community involvement and steady management.

They really worked to connect with local fans and organizations.

That effort paid off, turning home games into big events and building a loyal following.

FC Cincinnati’s colors, nickname, and family-friendly vibe make the club stand out for soccer fans all over.

Stadium and Fan Culture

FC Cincinnati plays at TQL Stadium, right in the West End.

The stadium opened in 2021 and seats over 26,000, with great sightlines and a focus on fan comfort.

The supporters’ section—‘The Bailey’—brings the energy every match.

Fans pack it with chants, banners, drums, and a sea of orange and blue.

Game days are something else—tailgates, events, and a buzz that pulls in fans from all over the city.

‘Orange and Blue’ supporters make TQL Stadium a fortress for the home team.

Stadium Features Table:

Feature	Details
Name	TQL Stadium
Location	West End, Cincinnati
Capacity	26,000+
Opened	2021
Notable Section	The Bailey

Orange and Blue Identity

FC Cincinnati’s identity comes straight from its colors and city pride.

The nickname ‘Orange and Blue’ pops up everywhere—from the club’s kit and crest to murals and merch around town.

Player jerseys, stadium décor, and community events all celebrate Cincinnati’s history and future.

Fans show up in orange and blue scarves, wave flags, and belt out anthems every match.

That identity has locked FC Cincinnati in as a fixture on the local sports scene.

How to Find Tickets

Getting tickets to FC Cincinnati games? Pretty simple.

You can grab them on the official club website—it’s easy to search for matches and seats.

Season tickets and single-game options are available, so there’s something for every budget.

Third-party vendors sometimes have tickets, but honestly, buying from the club is safest.

You might catch a promo or special offer if you buy early.

If you’re local, you can stop by the TQL Stadium ticket office on non-match days.

The club offers group rates, premium seating, and family sections, so everyone can get in on the action.

Position and Playing Style

Matt Miazga is the key defender for FC Cincinnati in the number 21 shirt.

His height, physical style, and tactical smarts make him a real presence at the heart of the backline.

He’s known for strong positioning, aerial ability, and solid right-footed passing.

Defender Role and Attributes

Miazga plays as a center-back and anchors the team’s defense.

At 6’4″, he uses his height to win headers and clear set pieces.

He reads the game well, often stepping up to intercept passes or break up attacks before they get dangerous.

Physical strength and timing are his bread and butter.

He’s tough in one-on-ones and rarely loses a physical battle.

His decision-making under pressure keeps the backline organized when things get frantic.

Table: Key Defensive Stats (Recent Seasons)

Season	Appearances	Tackles	Clearances	Interceptions	Aerial Duels Won
2023	28	46	137	38	107
2024*	12	17	62	14	52

*As of June 2025

Centre-Back vs Center Back Explained

Miazga plays center-back, which is just the American way to say ‘centre-back.’

They mean the same thing—just a spelling difference.

The job? Block shots, win headers, and mark the strikers.

Miazga’s positioning and communication keep Cincinnati’s defense tight.

He leads the line, closes gaps, and starts attacks when he can.

Modern center-backs have to build play from the back, not just defend.

Miazga’s passing lets him find midfielders or hit long balls to start things upfield.

Right Foot Dominance

Miazga’s right foot is his weapon of choice.

He passes, tackles, and clears mostly with his right, especially when playing on the right side of a central pair.

He can switch play or launch attacks from deep using that right foot.

His passing accuracy adds stability to Cincinnati’s buildup.

Being right-footed also helps him win duels against left-footed attackers.

For more on his position and role, check the FC Cincinnati official roster.

MLS Career Highlights

Matt Miazga has made his mark in Major League Soccer with FC Cincinnati.

You see it in his defensive performances, league awards, and what he brings to the team.

2023 MLS Season Achievements

The 2023 season? That was a big one for Miazga.

He earned MLS Defender of the Year, the first Cincinnati player to do it.

He started 27 matches and logged a personal best 2,384 minutes.

Miazga anchored a defense that helped Cincinnati finish at the top of the Eastern Conference.

He also landed a spot in the 2023 MLS Best XI—not bad at all.

His physical play, leadership, and game sense powered Cincinnati’s success that year.

Three goals from a center-back? That’s impressive.

You can find more about his honors on FC Cincinnati’s player page.

2024 MLS Season Performance

Coming off his standout 2023 season, Matt Miazga jumped right into 2024 as the heartbeat of FC Cincinnati’s back line. He brought his trademark consistency and tough marking, keeping the club right in the thick of the Eastern Conference race.

Through the first half of the season, Miazga started nearly every match he could. He tackled hard, won balls in the air, and kept his positioning sharp, giving Cincinnati a steady anchor while chasing high playoff seeds.

Sure, not every match ended with a clean sheet. But in the tough ones, you could see his value—he kept Cincinnati organized and calm even when things got dicey. His leadership set the tone for younger players, and when injuries hit or the lineup shuffled, he kept the defense steady.

Matt Miazga – 2024 Key Stats

Category	Stat
Matches Started	16
Minutes Played	1,360
Clean Sheets	7
Goals	1
Yellow Cards	4

Stats are estimates as of June 2025

Major League Soccer Teams

Miazga kicked off his MLS career after a stint in Europe, where he tried his luck with Chelsea FC and bounced around on loan. He landed with FC Cincinnati in August 2022, signing through 2025 with a 2026 option.

Before Cincinnati, he hadn’t played for any other MLS squad, making this move his first real home base in the league.

Cincinnati grabbed him using the top spot in the MLS Allocation Order—clearly, a lot of teams wanted his defensive chops. Since then, he’s become the anchor of the squad, helping shape that defensive identity and the club’s rise up the table.

You can check out more details about his move on MLS’s official player profile.

MLS Team of the Week Honors

Miazga’s name has popped up plenty of times in the MLS Team of the Week since joining FC Cincinnati. These nods usually come after games where he’s racked up clearances, made key tackles, or even chipped in a goal.

He’s got a knack for stepping up in big moments—whether it’s directing the back line or scoring off a set piece. Those weekly honors aren’t just fluff; they show the respect he’s earned from coaches and analysts for his defensive work.

Regular Team of the Week mentions highlight his impact every week, not just over a season. It’s a nice badge of reliability, and honestly, it’s well deserved.

Awards and Recognition

Matt Miazga has picked up several major honors since joining FC Cincinnati. These awards really shine a light on his individual skill and the difference he’s made for the squad.

MLS Defender of the Year

In 2023, Miazga took home the MLS Defender of the Year award—becoming the first FC Cincinnati player to do it. He stood out for his steady play and for organizing the defense.

Throughout that season, he was at the heart of one of the league’s top back lines. He matched up with the best strikers, and his leadership helped push Cincinnati to new heights. That award capped off a string of strong performances and only boosted his MLS reputation.

Key Defensive Stats (2023):

Matches Played	Clearances	Interceptions	Tackles Won
31	139	48	44

MLS Best XI Inclusion

Miazga’s big 2023 also landed him on the MLS Best XI. That’s the league’s top eleven, picked by players, coaches, and media. For a defender, that’s a massive sign of respect.

Making the Best XI means he read the game well, won his duels, and played out from the back. Standing alongside the league’s top talent, that’s a milestone for any player.

Supporters’ Shield Winner

Miazga helped FC Cincinnati claim their first Supporters’ Shield in 2023. That’s the trophy for the best regular-season record across all of MLS.

All season, he anchored a back line that stacked up clean sheets and shut down quality chances. That Shield marked a new chapter for Cincinnati, and Miazga’s defensive grit was a huge part of it.

MLS All-Star Game Selections

In 2023, Miazga earned his first MLS All-Star Game selection, joining Luciano Acosta and Álvaro Barreal. Making the All-Star team is a nod to both skill and steady play.

He showed his value in central defense and as a leader. Against the league’s best attackers, he held his own, showing great positioning and anticipation. Only the third Cincinnati player ever picked for the All-Star squad—his reputation keeps growing.

Defending Excellence and Statistics

Matt Miazga has become the heartbeat of FC Cincinnati’s back line. He uses his experience and consistency to keep things organized, and his value shows up in the numbers.

Clean Sheets and Defensive Records

Miazga’s defensive record just jumps off the page. In 2023, he helped Cincinnati rack up clean sheets and limit opponents’ chances. He played 27 matches, landed on the MLS Best XI, and snagged Defender of the Year—those are big-time honors.

This season, he’s played in 7 matches for 396 minutes, keeping a clean sheet once. That’s a 14% clean sheet ratio for the year. When he’s on the field, Cincinnati concedes 1.36 goals per 90 minutes, which shows just how tough he makes it in the box. For more on those numbers, check out the FootyStats profile on Matt Miazga.

Match Highlight:

• 2023 Season Defensive Awards:
  • MLS Defender of the Year
  • MLS Best XI Selection
  • 27 appearances

Player Data and Analytics

Beyond clean sheets, Miazga’s value pops in the data. He logged a career-high 2,384 minutes in 27 appearances, barely missing a game and showing off top-level fitness.

Here’s a quick look at his recent stats:

Season	Matches Played	Minutes Played	Clean Sheets	Goals Conceded (per 90)
2023	27	2,384	N/A	N/A
2024/25	7	396	1	1.36

Advanced analytics back up his defensive work. His clean sheets and blocks have helped push Cincinnati near the top of the league. For more details, check out Matt Miazga’s profile on FC Cincinnati and footystats.org.

International Career

Matt Miazga has been a regular for the United States on the international stage. His steady defending and strong aerial game have kept him in the mix for big regional tournaments.

United States Men’s National Team Journey

Miazga got his first senior call-up in 2015 after working through various U.S. youth teams. He debuted in November that year, coming on in a friendly against Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

He’s played with a bunch of different center-back partners, adjusting to new systems and coaches. His size and game-reading ability have made him a strong option in physical matchups.

He’s taken part in World Cup qualifiers for the U.S., sometimes as a starter, sometimes off the bench. Managers have shown they trust him in those big moments.

CONCACAF Nations League Highlights

Miazga joined the U.S. squad for the first CONCACAF Nations League, which kicked off in 2019. He played a key defensive role in both the group stage and knockout rounds, helping the team keep its shape against top regional rivals.

He stood out in the finals, especially against Mexico and Honduras. His calm under pressure helped the U.S. bring home the Nations League title in 2021.

Key Statistics in CONCACAF Nations League

Season	Matches Played	Minutes Played	Clean Sheets	Titles Won
2019-2021	6	540	3	1

Throughout the tournament, Miazga focused on positioning and set-piece defending—key stuff in knockout games where one mistake can cost you everything.

Gold Cup Appearances

Miazga has suited up for the U.S. in several CONCACAF Gold Cups, first getting picked in 2017 and returning for later editions. His defending was especially valuable in the knockout rounds, as the U.S. leaned on disciplined play to advance.

He played more minutes in the 2019 Gold Cup, where he dominated in the air and helped keep opponents in check. Against teams like Jamaica and Curaçao, he built a rep as a steady, reliable option when the pressure ramped up.

Miazga’s experience brought leadership to younger defenders, and his communication made things easier for the backline.

International Goals and Performances

Miazga doesn’t score much, but he’s found the net for the U.S. One of his best moments came in a 2017 Gold Cup group stage match against Nicaragua—he headed home off a set piece. That goal showed he’s got value on both ends.

Here’s his international goal record:

Opponent	Date	Competition	Result	Goal Type
Nicaragua	July 15, 2017	Gold Cup group stage	3-0 Win	Header

He’s known for steady, composed defending, but he’s always a threat on set pieces. When the U.S. needs a timely contribution, he’s ready to step up.

European Club Experience

Miazga’s European adventure started with a big move to England, then stops in the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and Spain. It wasn’t always easy, but he picked up plenty of experience—pretty much the story for a lot of Americans overseas.

Chelsea FC and Premier League Time

In early 2016, Miazga signed with Chelsea FC after coming up at the New York Red Bulls. At a club chasing Premier League glory, he faced serious competition for minutes.

He made just two league appearances for Chelsea. Most of his chances were limited, as the club leaned on established internationals in defense. Still, training with the best gave him a taste of elite football.

Chelsea FC 2015–16 (Premier League Statistics):

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2015–16	2	0	0

His main growth at Chelsea came from those high-level training sessions. It was a crash course in the Premier League’s speed and style.

Loan Spells and Impact

With first-team minutes tough to come by at Chelsea, Miazga went out on loan around Europe. Those stints shaped his career and gave him the match experience he needed.

He played for Vitesse Arnhem in the Dutch Eredivisie, then headed to France with FC Nantes, had a spell at Reading FC in the English Championship, and also suited up for Anderlecht in Belgium and Alavés in Spain.

At places like Vitesse and Reading, he became a regular starter. Each loan brought new challenges and opportunities, and those experiences made him tougher and more adaptable—on and off the field.

Dutch Cup and Vitesse Arnhem

Miazga made a bold move to Vitesse Arnhem in the Netherlands, and honestly, it changed the whole trajectory of his European adventure. He locked down a spot in the starting lineup and folks really noticed his composure and aerial dominance.

In the 2016–17 season, Miazga stepped up big time. He helped Vitesse capture the KNVB Cup—the club’s first major trophy in its entire history. That’s a career highlight right there, and he’ll probably tell you the same.

Vitesse Arnhem Key Stats (2016–2018):

Competition	Appearances	Goals
League	55	4
Cup	9	1

Playing regularly against the top Dutch clubs really sharpened his tactical awareness. You could see his confidence grow with every match.

French Ligue 1 Stint with FC Nantes

Miazga took his talents to FC Nantes for the 2018–19 season, heading into France’s Ligue 1. Nantes was going through a rocky stretch, but Miazga managed to carve out playing time in both league and cup matches.

He brought some much-needed physicality to the Nantes back line and adapted to Ligue 1’s mix of skill and athleticism. He didn’t score, but his solid performances kept him in the rotation.

FC Nantes (2018–19 Ligue 1):

Competition	Appearances	Goals
Ligue 1	8	0
Cup	2	0

His stay in France was brief, but it definitely tested his ability to adjust to Europe’s top leagues. That kind of experience is tough to replicate.

Contributions Across Clubs

Matt Miazga’s career has taken him through the U.S., England, Belgium, and Spain. He’s shown versatility and reliability as a defender no matter where he’s played.

New York Red Bulls Foundation

Miazga got his first real taste of Major League Soccer with the New York Red Bulls. He came up through their academy and made his debut in 2013, quickly becoming a core part of the team.

By 2015, he was starting at center back and played a big role in the club’s MLS Supporters’ Shield win. That’s no small feat for a young defender.

He showed off maturity and tactical awareness that you just don’t see every day in young players. He racked up 34 league appearances before heading overseas. Coaches and teammates praised his aerial strength, his calm under pressure, and his knack for reading the game.

His time with the Red Bulls really set the stage for his move to Europe.

Notable Red Bulls Highlights:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Major Achievement
2013	7	0	MLS Debut
2014	7	1	First MLS Goal
2015	30	1	MLS Supporters’ Shield Win

Loan to Reading FC

After signing with Chelsea, Miazga needed first-team minutes. So, he went on loan to Reading FC in the EFL Championship and made an immediate impact.

He joined in January 2019 and jumped right into the starting lineup, helping to steady a shaky defense. Miazga’s clearances, marking, and timely tackles stood out every week.

He even chipped in with a goal and helped Reading fight off relegation. The club extended his loan for another season, showing real trust in him.

During his time at Reading, both fans and coaches respected his professionalism and work rate.

Key Reading Stats:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2018-2019	18	1	0
2019-2020	24	1	1

Playing for RSC Anderlecht

Miazga took on the Belgian Pro League with Anderlecht for the 2020-21 season. He played under Vincent Kompany, which had to be a learning experience for any defender.

He made regular starts, brought defensive stability, and slotted in as either a center back in a three or in a traditional back four.

He played 27 matches and scored once in the league. His passing and ball distribution definitely improved, which is exactly what you’d expect in Belgium.

Miazga’s ability to adapt to different styles and systems made him a reliable option for any squad.

Anderlecht Record:

Season	Appearances	Goals
2020-21	27	1

Deportivo Alavés Experience

In 2021, Miazga made the jump to Deportivo Alavés in Spain’s La Liga. That’s a step up in competition, no doubt about it.

He played 11 league matches, fighting for a regular spot in the starting eleven. The Spanish league’s speed and technical play forced him to refine his positioning and one-on-one defending.

He didn’t always get the minutes he wanted, but coaches still noticed his work rate and his ability to play out from the back. His stint in La Liga rounded out his European résumé before he returned stateside.

Key Rivalries and Matches

Matt Miazga has faced some of the league’s toughest opponents, anchoring the defense for FC Cincinnati. He’s shaped key rivalries and left his mark in big games, both in MLS and internationally.

Hell is Real Derby

The Hell is Real Derby—now there’s a rivalry that gets the blood pumping. Every time FC Cincinnati takes on Columbus Crew, Miazga’s role gets even more important.

He defends against some of the best attackers in the league, bringing calm and grit to Cincinnati’s back line. The energy in these Ohio matchups? You can feel it in the stands.

Since arriving at FC Cincinnati, he’s really embraced the rivalry. The pressure is intense, tackles are flying, and Miazga often steps up as a vocal leader.

His games against the Crew always seem to feature big defensive moments or crucial blocks. That’s how you build a reputation in a rivalry.

Recent Hell is Real Derby Stats

Date	Result	Minutes Played	Clearances	Tackles
April 2024	2-2 Draw	90	5	3
July 2024	1-0 Win	89	7	4

Significant Matches in MLS

Miazga’s time with FC Cincinnati has included some unforgettable MLS battles, regular season and playoffs alike.

He played a huge part in Cincinnati’s win over the Philadelphia Union, holding their attack to just one goal. His interceptions and aerial wins disrupt opponents and bring calm when things get tense.

During the 2023 and 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs, Miazga anchored the defense through some tight games, helping Cincinnati push deeper into the postseason than most expected.

His knack for reading the game and organizing his teammates has made a difference in close matches. That’s the kind of defensive awareness every team wants at crunch time.

UEFA Super Cup Appearance

Before Cincinnati, Miazga picked up valuable European experience with Chelsea FC. One of his most memorable moments? Being part of the squad for the UEFA Super Cup.

He didn’t start, but just being in the matchday squad with world-class defenders gave him a front-row seat to top-level football.

That experience exposed Miazga to the demands of international competition. Training with some of Europe’s best expanded his tactical knowledge and shaped him as a leader in MLS.

His Chelsea stint, including the Super Cup, gave him insights he now uses to guide younger players and keep his own standards sky-high at FC Cincinnati.

Contracts, Sponsorships, and Commercial Aspects

Matt Miazga’s time with FC Cincinnati is shaped by his contract details and big-name partnerships. These factors play a direct role in his career stability and his profile on and off the pitch.

Contract Details and Expiry

Miazga signed a four-year deal with FC Cincinnati in 2022. That contract runs through December 31, 2025.

He’s one of the club’s top earners, which really shows how much they value his presence at the back.

Reports say Miazga will pull in a base salary of $1,525,000 for the 2025 season. Bonuses and incentives could push that number even higher.

His contract also gives FC Cincinnati the option to extend his stay past the original term.

Season	Base Salary	Contract Expiry
2025	$1,525,000	Dec 31, 2025

You can check out more about his contract and earnings on Spotrac and Capology.

Adidas Sponsorship

As a high-profile defender in MLS, Miazga’s got an endorsement deal with Adidas. You’ll spot him wearing Adidas boots and gear just about every match.

Adidas is a major player in soccer gear, especially for athletes with national team experience.

This partnership boosts Miazga’s off-field profile and connects him to a global audience through Adidas’ marketing. These deals often come with bonuses for appearances and achievements, but, as usual, the numbers stay private.

The partnership highlights both Miazga’s stature and Adidas’ commitment to established American soccer stars.

Inveniam Partnership

Alright, let’s talk about Inveniam. This data technology company actually represents Miazga in all his professional dealings.

They handle his contract negotiations, sponsorship activations, and public relations too. You can bet Inveniam’s work keeps Miazga’s agreements sharp and, honestly, pretty beneficial for him.

Thanks to Inveniam’s backing, Miazga has landed some big contracts. He’s managed to stay visible in some tough, competitive markets as well.

The company also works to maximize his earning potential, whether that’s here at home or on the international stage. Not a bad gig, right?

With Inveniam in his corner, Miazga can really zero in on his performance. Meanwhile, his brand keeps growing and he’s setting himself up for whatever comes after his playing days.

You’ll even find this partnership mentioned in official player profiles, like on Transfermarkt.