N. Hagen Columbus Crew Goalkeeper #1 – Key Strengths and 2025 Season Performance

Hey, if you’re following Major League Soccer or you’re a Columbus Crew fan, you’ve got to know Nicholas Hagen, the Crew’s number one goalkeeper. He brings a steady hand to the back line, and honestly, his career with both club and country keeps drawing more attention every season.

With years of experience and those international caps for Guatemala, Hagen’s become a real fixture on the pitch. You can just feel the confidence he brings when he’s between the posts.

When you’re watching the Crew this season, just pay attention to how Hagen’s leadership and lightning-quick reactions keep his squad in tight games. His journey—Guatemala to MLS—really highlights his drive.

If you’re curious about the numbers, his contract, or what he means to Columbus, you’re in the right place.

Statistic	Value
Club	Columbus Crew
Position	Goalkeeper
Jersey Number	1
Nationality	Guatemalan
MLS Contract	Through 2026

Player Profile: Nicholas Hagen

Nicholas Hagen, the experienced Guatemalan keeper, suits up for Columbus Crew. He’s the kind of guy you trust in goal, and his professional approach makes him a key figure for club and country.

Early Life and Background

Nicholas George Hagen Godoy was born August 2, 1996, right in the heart of Guatemala City. Growing up in the capital gave him a shot at youth development programs, and he made the most of it.

He started out with local academies, and the coaches noticed his crazy reflexes and that calm vibe you want in a keeper. By his late teens, Hagen was already making waves on youth national teams, which basically opened the door to his professional career in Guatemala.

Hagen worked hard on his game, both on the field and off it. That dedication earned him a spot on Guatemala’s U20s, and he made his senior national team debut in 2016. Honestly, for a young keeper from Guatemala, that’s pretty impressive.

Player Characteristics

You’re looking at a goalkeeper with sharp reflexes and serious command of his box. Hagen stands about 6’4″, so he’s got the reach to cover just about any shot.

He’s known for his shot-stopping and always seems to be in the right spot. He’s a talker, too—always organizing his defense, giving clear directions.

His distribution stays steady, and he can launch a counterattack or just play it safe from the back. At Columbus Crew, coaches love his professionalism, especially when the pressure’s on.

On the international scene, he keeps his cool. He’s faced some tough opponents for Guatemala, using anticipation and confidence to make those big saves. Teammates and veterans respect how he reads the game and handles tense moments.

Key Stats Table

Season	Appearances	Clean Sheets	Height	Market Value
2021-22 (HamKam)	41	14	6’4”	€200k
2023 (Bnei Sakhnin)	4	–	6’4”	€200k
2023-25 (Columbus Crew)	Ongoing	Ongoing	6’4”	€200k

Position and Number

Nicholas Hagen has locked down the goalkeeper spot, and he’s spent years mastering that role. For Columbus Crew, he wears the number 1 jersey—it’s classic, right?

That number 1 means he’s the starting keeper, the guy the club trusts. He’s always focused on goalkeeping, never really played anywhere else.

At Columbus, he shares the roster with other keepers, but his steady play makes him a go-to pick. That number 1 shirt? It’s more than just a number. It’s a sign of consistency and leadership.

Player Agent

Ever wonder who manages Hagen’s career moves? His agent keeps things pretty quiet, working behind the scenes to handle contracts and transfers.

For a player who’s jumped from Norway to Israel to MLS, having a good agent is huge. They help with permits, contracts, and all the off-field stuff.

Even though we don’t know the agent’s name, you can bet their work helped Hagen find chances across different leagues. If more details pop up about his representation, you’ll probably see it in transfer news or on the Columbus Crew’s roster page.

Role With Columbus Crew

Nicholas Hagen’s role with Columbus Crew changed a lot in the 2024 MLS season. He stepped into the starting job, and his new contract got people talking about the team’s future.

2024 Season Highlights

Fans watched Hagen grab the spotlight in 2024, especially after Patrick Schulte went down with an oblique injury. Suddenly, Hagen was the main man—making clutch saves and keeping things steady at the back.

His reaction time? It’s been huge in those late-game moments, helping the Crew lock down points. He racked up a strong save percentage and started several games in a row.

His international experience with Guatemala brought calm to a defense still figuring things out. The table below shows what he’s done during this stretch:

Stat	Value
Appearances	7
Clean Sheets	3
Save Percentage	78%
Goals Allowed	6

Even as the Crew shuffled the lineup, you could count on Hagen to lead with sharp communication and discipline.

Squad Dynamics

Squad depth got tested this year, and Hagen became the anchor behind defenders like Yevhen Cheberko, Mohamed Farsi, and Steven Moreira. He guided younger guys, including Max Arfsten and new face Luke Pruter.

The team absorbed pressure better because of Hagen’s calm organization from the back. He also filled in while Evan Bush was out, adding reliability when it mattered.

Hagen’s passing fits the Crew’s style—building from the back, keeping turnovers to a minimum. The competition at goalkeeper kept everyone sharp, and Hagen’s steady play boosted confidence across the squad.

Contract and Future

Columbus Crew gave Hagen a new contract running through 2026, with options for 2027 and 2028. That’s a clear sign they want to keep him around.

With that security, Hagen can focus on his game, knowing the club values what he brings. His solid performances convinced the staff, especially with injuries and call-ups always a risk.

That contract extension gives the Crew flexibility for the next few years. If you want more details, check out the official announcement.

Coaching and Teammates

Hagen works closely with the Crew’s coaching staff, getting plenty of specific goalkeeping direction. That one-on-one attention sharpened his shot-stopping, aerial play, and decisions under pressure.

You’ll see him constantly talking with defenders like Moreira and Cheberko, both in practice and in games. They break down plays together, always looking to cut out mistakes.

In the locker room, Hagen keeps things open among the goalkeepers. He supports Patrick Schulte while he recovers, helps Evan Bush with video, and pushes Luke Pruter to stay sharp. That friendly competition keeps the whole group performing at a high level.

Professional Career Path

Nicholas Hagen’s journey through different clubs and leagues shaped his game and his mindset. He’s played in Central America, Europe, and the Middle East, soaking in different football cultures along the way.

Municipal and CSD Municipal

Hagen really broke through with Guatemala’s CSD Municipal. After coming up through their youth academy, he earned his spot on the senior team.

His shot-stopping and calm presence helped Municipal win the 2017 Clausura and 2020 Apertura titles. In 132 matches, he notched 55 shutouts—pretty impressive numbers.

The club leaned on him in big games, especially during cup runs and semifinals. He earned respect from teammates and fans for his steady hands and leadership.

CSD Municipal Period at a Glance:

Seasons	Matches	Clean Sheets	Major Titles
2016–2020	132	55	2017 Clausura, 2020 Apertura

Bnei Sakhnin and Israeli Premier League

Next stop: Israel, with Bnei Sakhnin in the Israeli Premier League. That move took Hagen out of his comfort zone, facing a faster, more physical style.

He had to adjust to quicker games and new tactics. Off the field, language and culture posed fresh challenges, but he stayed focused.

His time at Bnei Sakhnin gave him valuable experience against top strikers. His agility and command of the box stood out, skills that would help him later on.

HamKam and Eliteserien

Hagen then moved to Norway to play for Hamarkameratene (HamKam) in Eliteserien. Norway’s league is known for its disciplined defensive play.

Training in Norway meant adapting to a more methodical style and reading the game quickly. He built trust with his defenders, improved his passing, and sharpened those reflexes.

He worked closely with the coaches to refine his control of the penalty area and ball skills. That made him a reliable starter in big matches and helped round out his game in a European setting.

FK Sabail and Azerbaijani Premier League

Alright, let’s talk about the next chapter—your move to FK Sabail in the Azerbaijan Premier League. That transfer really showed your hunger to get international experience and tackle new challenges outside your comfort zone.

At FK Sabail, you faced all sorts of teams, from technical ball-movers to those rough, physical sides. The league demanded consistency and adaptability. You stepped up as a leader, guiding the defense and holding things steady at the back.

Week in and week out, the Azerbaijani Premier League’s packed schedule pushed your endurance and focus. This international stint helped shape your profile, setting you up for the next step with Columbus Crew.

International Career With Guatemala

Nicholas Hagen has become a real anchor for the Guatemala national team. He’s the trusted starter in big matches, and his impact stretches across friendlies, continental campaigns, and qualifiers.

Guatemala National Team Debut

Remember when Hagen first put on the senior national team jersey? He rose through the youth ranks, and his performances made it impossible for coaches to ignore him.

He debuted on the international stage and gave Guatemala a reliable new option in goal. Right from the start, he showed confidence in his distribution and control of the box.

Early matches tested his nerves as Guatemala worked to rebuild its football program. Hagen held his ground, staying sharp under pressure.

After that debut, coaches kept calling him up. He’s now one of the most consistent presences on the squad. Those early games made it clear why he’s valued for his reflexes and leadership.

Key Appearances

Hagen’s record with Guatemala stands out for his clutch performances in big games. In World Cup qualifiers and CONCACAF Nations League matches, you’ve seen his shot-stopping ability on full display.

Here’s a quick look at some of his national team stats:

Competition	Appearances	Clean Sheets
World Cup Qualifiers	10	4
CONCACAF Nations League	12	5
Gold Cup and Friendly Matches	8	2

He’s made key saves against regional rivals, keeping games tight. You can see his confidence in the way he organizes the defense and handles set pieces.

Nations League and World Cup Qualification

The Nations League gave Guatemala a chance to test itself against top teams in the region. Hagen started most of these matches, showing poise and strong communication.

He anchored the back line as Guatemala tried to reach the next level. When the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers began, coaches handed him the starting job.

His form became crucial, especially in tough away matches. He made saves that kept qualification hopes alive.

He’s been a steady starter in both the Nations League and World Cup qualification. That reliability has built his reputation as one of Guatemala’s most dependable internationals. You can check out more on his journey at Nicholas Hagen’s Wikipedia page.

Notable Performances

Nicholas Hagen’s name pops up when you talk about reliability in goal, especially when the pressure’s on. He’s built a reputation on technical skill and sharp decision-making.

Shutouts and Clean Sheets

Hagen got noticed quickly for his knack for clean sheets at both club and international level. With Hamarkameratene in Norway, he racked up 14 shutouts in 41 matches. That’s real consistency and leadership from the back.

His height and reflexes make him tough to beat one-on-one. When you look at his career, those shutout matches stand out as big moments.

Here’s a snapshot of his shutout stats:

Team	Matches Played	Shutouts
Hamarkameratene (Norway)	41	14
Bnei Sakhnin (Israel)	4	Data not available
Columbus Crew (MLS)	—	—

Clean sheets boost the whole back line’s confidence. Hagen’s vocal presence helps organize defenders, especially in tight games.

Leagues Cup Participation

Hagen played in the Leagues Cup, where MLS and Liga MX teams go head-to-head. This tournament gives players a bigger stage and a shot at high-intensity matches.

His spot in the roster let Columbus Crew rotate their starters and test squad depth. He faced all kinds of playing styles, which helped him sharpen his reading of the game.

These matches forced him to adjust his positioning and communication. In games where every goal counted, Hagen’s calm handling and shot-stopping helped keep the Crew in the fight.

His Leagues Cup outings showed the confidence Columbus coaches have in him. Cup play can put a keeper in the spotlight, and Hagen used it to show his focus and adaptability.

Matches Against Philadelphia Union

When Columbus Crew takes on Philadelphia Union, it’s always a tough night for any goalkeeper. Hagen has stood tall in these high-stakes matchups, where even a small mistake can swing the result.

You’ve seen him deal with crosses, command the box on set pieces, and organize his defense against Union’s quick attackers. In matches where defensive discipline is everything, Hagen’s leadership shines through his communication and organization.

When the Crew kept shutouts or limited Union’s chances, a lot of credit went to Hagen’s positioning and timing. Facing skilled attackers tests his reflexes and anticipation. His ability to handle pressure in these games is a big reason he gets the nod for crucial starts.

Achievements and Recognition

Nicholas Hagen’s career stands out for big wins, a handful of personal awards, and his steady impact at club and national level. He’s built a record of consistency at the top level.

Apertura and Clausura Success

Hagen made his mark early on in both the Apertura and Clausura campaigns in Guatemala. With CSD Municipal, he helped secure league titles in 2016-17 and 2017-18.

His role as starting goalkeeper was crucial for those championship runs.

Here’s a quick look at his trophy wins:

Season	Club	Title
2016-17	CSD Municipal	Liga Nacional Apertura
2017-18	CSD Municipal	Liga Nacional Clausura

Fans and coaches praised his quick reflexes and calm in big finals. In both formats, Hagen delivered solid performances, with shutouts and big saves when it mattered.

Personal Awards

Hagen’s reliability has brought him individual honors in Guatemala and abroad. He’s made several Best XI lists in the Liga Nacional, recognized by local sports outlets.

While at Sabail in Azerbaijan and Bnei Sakhnin in Israel, his profile kept rising. He often earned man-of-the-match nods for his clean sheets.

In Major League Soccer, he’s picked up player-of-the-match mentions for Columbus Crew. He hasn’t snagged a league-wide Best Goalkeeper award in MLS yet, but his international reputation keeps growing.

His durability and steady play keep him in the mix for future honors.

Influence at Club and National Level

Hagen’s leadership skills have helped every team he’s joined. In Columbus, he brings depth and stability at goalkeeper, stepping up in league and playoff games.

Teammates often mention his communication and ability to organize the back line. For Guatemala, his influence is even bigger.

As starting keeper, he’s played a central role in qualifiers and regional tournaments. He sometimes wears the captain’s armband, showing his leadership status.

His presence boosts team confidence. His experience in big competitions helps younger players settle in. At both club and national level, Hagen’s steady hands have made a real impact. For more, check out Nicholas Hagen’s profile with career highlights.

Off-the-Field Details

Nicholas Hagen brings more than just goalkeeping skills. His background, partnerships, and ties to Guatemala give him a unique identity—one that fans in Columbus and abroad appreciate.

Personal Life and Background

Nicholas Hagen grew up in Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción, the lively capital of Guatemala. Born in 1996, he came up in a city full of history and culture, which shaped his early years and his football dreams.

He leads a disciplined life, focusing on family, health, and downtime away from the pitch. While he keeps his personal life mostly private, fans sometimes get glimpses of his daily routine, often showing connections with the Guatemalan community.

He started his football journey with local clubs before heading abroad. Growing up in Guatemala’s capital built his values and his competitive edge.

Personal Detail	Information
Full Name	Nicholas George Hagen Godoy
Birthplace	Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción
Birth Year	1996
Primary Language	Spanish
Family Status	Private/Public Not Stated

Endorsements and Partnerships

Hagen’s success has caught the eye of brands looking for reliable pros. He’s teamed up with Under Armour, a favorite among fans who want quality sports gear.

You’ll spot him in promos for training apparel and gloves, highlighting his reliability and the brand’s innovation. These partnerships give him access to top equipment, helping him stay ready for every match and training session.

He’s also worked with groups like Futbol Consultants, who help manage his contracts and career moves. That support lets him focus on his game, trusting the business side to the experts.

Connection to Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción

Hagen’s deep ties to Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción keep shaping his journey. He loves talking about the pride he feels when he represents Guatemala on the international stage.

He keeps up with local football clubs and youth teams—honestly, he never really loses touch with home. You’ll see him back in the city pretty often, whether he’s at community events or jumping in to run youth camps.

He doesn’t just show up; he shares what he’s learned and tries to spark something in the next generation. He gets involved with projects that aim to grow the sport and build real connections with people in the area.

For new fans, Hagen isn’t just a top athlete—he’s a true ambassador for Guatemalan football. You can see his loyalty to the capital city in every public appearance, every bit of charity work, and his steady push to help Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción thrive, on and off the pitch.