NICK HAGGLUND FC Cincinnati Defender #4 Profile, Career Highlights, and Impact

Nick Hagglund has really become a staple in FC Cincinnati’s backline, wearing that number 4 with pride. A Cincinnati native, Hagglund joined the club in 2019. He brought experience, leadership, and a bit of hometown swagger, quickly turning into a mainstay for the defense.

Fans love his steady presence. He’s always in the right spot, organizing the back line and just keeping things calm.

Standing at 6’0″, Hagglund has played his whole Major League Soccer career as a center-back. His journey? Well, it started at Xavier with the Musketeers and now, he’s anchoring his hometown club. That’s dedication, folks.

Check out his recent stats right here:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals
2021	FC Cincinnati	28	2
2022	FC Cincinnati	22	0
2023	FC Cincinnati	30	1

FC Cincinnati relies on Hagglund as they chase MLS glory. Want more on his career? Here’s his FC Cincinnati player profile.

Player Profile: Nicholas Stuart Hagglund

Nicholas Stuart Hagglund plays as a defender for FC Cincinnati and stands out as one of the club’s most recognized local talents.

His soccer story is shaped by his Cincinnati roots. You can see that consistency and defensive strength every time he steps on the field.

Personal Background and Early Life

Hagglund grew up right here in Cincinnati, Ohio. Soccer grabbed his attention early, and he jumped into local youth leagues, showing promise as a defender even back then.

He kept at it through school and then at Xavier University. There, he picked up honors and became a cornerstone for their soccer program.

Growing up in Ohio, Hagglund learned the value of hard work and discipline. He often credits his family and local coaches for helping him develop his skills.

Those early days set him on the path to MLS.

His college years gave him a strong foundation. Hagglund always points to Cincinnati as the place that shaped his mindset and style.

Physical Attributes and Playing Style

At 6 feet tall, Hagglund brings some real presence to the FC Cincinnati backline. He’s got excellent positioning and tackles reliably—never flashy, but always effective.

He reads the game well and dominates in the air, especially on set pieces. Opponents know he’s a tough matchup.

Hagglund usually lines up as a center back. He anchors the defense with composure and keeps the communication flowing.

His style? Disciplined, tactical, and steady. He’s not taking wild risks—just keeping things locked down.

Key Physical Attributes

Attribute	Value
Height	6’0″ (183 cm)
Position	Defender, Center Back
Dominant Foot	Right

Stats don’t always capture what he brings. His leadership on and off the field matters just as much.

Cincinnati Native Roots

Hagglund’s local roots make him a fan favorite every single matchday. Born and raised in Cincinnati, he’s got a special connection with the club and its supporters.

You’ll often spot him at community events, soccer clinics, and youth programs around Ohio. He gives back and inspires the next wave of local talent.

After a stint with Toronto FC, Hagglund’s return to Cincinnati really hit home for the fans. Homegrown talent matters here.

Want more on his background? Check out the official FC Cincinnati player profile.

Date of Birth and Birthplace

Nick Hagglund was born September 14, 1992, right here in Cincinnati, Ohio. He’s always been proud of those local roots, and you can hear it in just about every interview.

Being a Cincinnati native shapes his bond with the fans and the local soccer scene. His experience puts him among the leaders on this FC Cincinnati roster.

You can dig deeper into his background on Nick Hagglund’s Wikipedia page. His ties to the Queen City run deep, on and off the pitch.

FC Cincinnati Career Overview

Nick Hagglund’s FC Cincinnati story? It’s all about steady leadership, local pride, and a lasting impact. He’s been there from the start and really helped shape this club’s identity.

Joining the Orange and Blue

Hagglund joined FC Cincinnati for their first-ever MLS season in 2019. As a Cincinnati guy, he instantly connected with the fans.

The club brought him in from Toronto FC, looking for experience and reliability at center back. He jumped right into the defensive mix.

Hagglund’s arrival meant a lot to the city. He didn’t just play—he represented Cincinnati, both on the field and in the community as a club ambassador.

Key Milestones and Debut

Hagglund made his FC Cincinnati debut in March 2019, starting in the club’s first MLS home game. That’s a moment fans won’t forget.

He quickly became a reliable starter and one of the most experienced defenders in the squad.

Over his first seasons, Hagglund hit some big milestones. He passed 100 career MLS appearances, scored important goals, and helped the team keep clean sheets.

Wearing the number 4, he often put on the captain’s armband, a sign of trust from coaches and teammates.

Season	MLS Appearances	Goals	Assists	Clean Sheets (Team)
2019	25	2	0	5
2020	15	0	1	6
2021	20	1	1	3

2023 Season Highlights

In 2023, Hagglund kept playing a huge role for FC Cincinnati. He appeared in over 20 league matches and helped solidify a much-improved defense.

His leadership didn’t stop on the field. He mentored younger defenders and brought stability during a season full of changes.

He stepped up in crucial matches, especially when injuries hit the back line. Thanks in part to Hagglund, FC Cincinnati finished among the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

2024 MLS Campaign

Hagglund stayed with FC Cincinnati for the 2024 MLS season, re-signing through 2027. That’s some serious commitment to his hometown club.

As a veteran, he took on a mix of starting and rotational roles. He adapted as the coaching staff tweaked the defensive system.

Expectations rose in 2024 after strong seasons. Hagglund’s experience and leadership were vital as the team juggled MLS and cup matches.

He continued to anchor the defense and set the tone as a club ambassador. Want more on his 2024 season? Here’s his FC Cincinnati player page and Transfermarkt stats.

Performance and Statistics

Hagglund keeps delivering steady minutes for FC Cincinnati. He anchors the back line with that classic mix of experience and reliability.

Appearances, Games Played, and Starts

Since 2019, Hagglund has made regular appearances for FC Cincinnati. He started all 13 league matches in the team’s 2022 wins, showing just how much the club relies on him.

In 2022, he made 32 appearances and started 31 matches. That’s consistency you can count on.

Season	Appearances	Starts	Minutes Played
2022	32	31	2,700

Coaches trust him, and it shows in the numbers. For a defender, staying fit and available is half the battle.

Check out his official FC Cincinnati profile for more.

Defensive Contributions: Clearances and Tackles

Hagglund really shines in the defensive stats. In 2022, he led the team in clearances (136) and headed clearances (71). That’s a guy who deals with danger.

He also topped the team in interceptions, racking up 43 for the season.

Those numbers show his ability to read the game and get there first. He’s always in the mix, winning aerial duels and shutting down attacks.

Statistic	2022 Total
Clearances	136
Headed Clearances	71
Interceptions	43

Leading in these categories? That’s anticipation and reliability, plain and simple.

Passing Accuracy and Distribution

Hagglund’s passing is steady—usually right around league average for a central defender. He keeps possession and makes the first pass out of the back, letting Cincinnati build attacks.

He doesn’t go for risky, highlight-reel passes. Instead, he picks the smart option to avoid turnovers.

His passing accuracy lands between 75% and 80% most seasons.

Short passes under pressure and simple outlets to the wings are his bread and butter. The team values his mistake-free distribution.

Season	Passing Accuracy (%)
2022	78
2023	76

He knows when to play it safe and just keep things moving.

Career-Highs and Key Stats

Hagglund’s 2022 season stands out as his best so far with FC Cincinnati. He set career-highs in appearances and defensive actions.

Some standout numbers:

• Most starts in a season (31)
• Most clearances (136) and headed clearances (71)
• Highest number of interceptions (43) for the team

He earned the club’s Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022. Coaches and teammates definitely notice his impact.

You can find all the detailed stats on his Transfermarkt player profile.

Year after year, Hagglund keeps showing what defensive consistency looks like in Major League Soccer.

Scoring and Match Impact

Let’s talk about Nick Hagglund—a defender who’s made his name in the clutch. He’s put his stamp on FC Cincinnati with his scoring, passing, and, of course, that gritty defensive work.

Goals and Game-Winners

Hagglund doesn’t score a ton, but when he does, it’s usually at just the right moment. Fans still remember the goal he buried for Toronto FC against Montreal in that wild 2016 Eastern Conference Final—what a night that was, ending 7-5 on aggregate.

Since landing in Cincinnati in 2019, he’s chipped in with goals that have swung matches or locked in crucial points. It’s not about volume with Hagglund; it’s about timing. When the game’s tight, he seems to pop up in the right spot.

He’s not on the scoresheet every week, but he’s got a knack for making his goals count. Cincinnati’s grabbed wins and salvaged draws thanks to his well-timed strikes.

Season	Club	Goals	Notable Game-Winners
2016	Toronto FC	1	Eastern Conference Final
2019–2024	FC Cincinnati	Varies	Multiple important matches

Set pieces? Hagglund’s always lurking, ready to rise up and make something happen when the pressure’s on.

Assists and Offensive Contributions

Defense is Hagglund’s bread and butter, but he’s no stranger to getting forward. He starts attacks from the back, moving the ball through midfield and helping build plays.

You’ll often spot him in the box on set pieces, using his frame and movement to free up teammates. His passing isn’t flashy, but it’s sharp—he puts the ball in dangerous spots and, even if he doesn’t get the assist, he’s often the one who starts the sequence.

When he pushes up on corners or supports out wide, he drags defenders out of position and creates space. The assist numbers aren’t huge, but he’s a big part of the attacking build-up.

Season	Assists (Approx.)	Key Offensive Plays
2021	1	Build-up to set piece goals
2023	1	Creating chances on corners

Aerial Duels and Goals Blocked

This is where Hagglund really shines. He dominates in the air, winning headers, clearing danger, and shutting down opposing forwards.

On both ends of the field, he’s a target for high balls. He reads the play well and positions himself to block shots and intercept crosses, bailing out his keeper more than once.

Hagglund leads the team in clearances and aerials won—no surprise there. He’s a pillar in Cincinnati’s back line.

Area	2023 Season
Aerial Duels Won	60+
Shots/Goals Blocked	15+

Clean Sheets and Defensive Records

Hagglund’s defensive play has been a major reason FC Cincinnati racks up clean sheets lately. He’s almost always in the lineup for the big games, logging heavy minutes.

His leadership and organization have boosted Cincinnati’s shutout numbers, especially during that 2023 Supporters’ Shield run. When Hagglund’s on the field, the team just looks tougher to break down.

The numbers back it up—Cincinnati’s become one of the league’s stingiest teams, and Hagglund’s right at the heart of it.

Season	Matches Started	Clean Sheets	Supporters’ Shield
2023	25+	10+	Yes
2024	15+	6+	In contention

Recognition and Honors

Nick Hagglund’s trophy case has filled up over the years. He’s earned respect for his defense and his leadership, both on the pitch and in the locker room.

Defensive Player of the Year Accolades

Back at Xavier, Hagglund made waves as a top defender. In 2013, he took home the Big East Defensive Player of the Year award—no small feat. Before that, he grabbed the Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year honor.

Those awards put him in elite company. Coaches loved his smart positioning and his willingness to take command when things got tense.

Table: Defensive Awards by Year

Year	Award	Conference
2012	Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of Year	Atlantic 10
2013	Big East Defensive Player of Year	Big East

Team of the Week Selections

Hagglund’s made the MLS Team of the Week several times. That’s no easy club to join—only the best of the best get in each week.

He’s landed on those lists for his rock-solid defense and, occasionally, for a big goal off a set piece. Some of his proudest moments have come wearing FC Cincinnati colors, starting in the biggest matches.

Getting named to the team of the week? That’s league-wide respect, not just from teammates but from media and analysts too.

Other Notable Awards

At Xavier, Hagglund earned First Team All-Big East and Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team honors. Those go to the conference’s best, plain and simple.

In MLS, he’s been recognized for his longevity and leadership. He’s the only player to suit up for every FC Cincinnati MLS season since 2019, and he played a big part in their 2023 Supporters’ Shield win.

Notable Honors:

• First Team All-Big East
• Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team
• MLS Supporters’ Shield with FC Cincinnati in 2023

Injuries and Comebacks

Nick Hagglund hasn’t had it easy—injuries have tested him again and again. Still, he keeps finding ways to bounce back, showing the kind of resilience you want from a pro defender.

Broken Ribs and Collapsed Lung

In May 2025, Hagglund suffered a brutal blow—two broken ribs and a collapsed lung after a collision with Atlanta United’s Emmanuel Latte Lath. It happened early in the match, and medics rushed on right away.

Doctors performed a procedure that night to treat the lung. One rib was out of place, which made things even trickier. The team said he’d need another procedure for the fractures.

Despite all that, Hagglund kept his chin up. The club gave regular updates, outlining his recovery plan and keeping fans in the loop. You can catch more details in this injury update on Nick Hagglund.

Injury	Date	Recovery Timeline
Broken Ribs, Collapsed Lung	May 2025	Ongoing

Hamstring Injuries

Late in the 2023 season, Hagglund tweaked his hamstring. Bad timing, right as Cincinnati was pushing through the playoffs.

He missed the last few matches and focused on rehab—rest, therapy, and slowly ramping up activity. Hamstring troubles are pretty common for defenders who sprint a lot.

Hagglund made it back the next season, thanks to his work ethic and the club’s medical team.

Season	Injury	Games Missed
2023	Hamstring strain	4

Ankle Ligament Reconstructive Surgery

Earlier in his career, Hagglund had ankle ligament reconstructive surgery. That’s a tough road—recovery can drag on for months.

He spent hours in rehab, working on strength and balance. Rushing back too soon wasn’t an option, so he stayed disciplined.

When he returned, he looked as sharp as ever. Teammates and coaches pointed to his rehab routine as a big reason for his smooth comeback.

Recovery and Return to Play

Hagglund approaches recovery with a pro’s mindset. After every injury, he follows a plan—medical treatment, strength work, and sport-specific drills.

He works with resistance bands, agility ladders, and balance boards. Trainers and doctors track his progress and adjust as needed.

Over the years, he’s managed to shorten his recovery times and avoid repeat injuries. That’s the mark of a true professional.

MLS and Professional Journey

Nick Hagglund’s MLS career has been full of big moments and big shifts. He started with Toronto FC, made his mark, won a championship, and then took on a new challenge with FC Cincinnati.

Toronto FC Years

Toronto FC picked Hagglund 10th overall in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. He wasted no time making an impression with his defensive grit and work rate.

From 2014 to 2018, Hagglund played over 100 league matches for Toronto. He helped build a tough back line and got the team into the playoffs.

He scored some key goals, too—especially on set pieces. By 2017, he was a trusted starter and a fan favorite at BMO Field.

Season	Club	MLS Appearances	MLS Goals
2014-2018	Toronto FC	Over 100	5

Trade to FC Cincinnati

In January 2019, Hagglund came home—literally—joining FC Cincinnati right before their MLS debut. That move brought his career full circle.

He slotted straight into the starting lineup, bringing experience and leadership to a young squad. He’s played all across the back line, but center-back is his main spot.

Since joining, he’s been a steady presence and a club ambassador, connecting with fans and the Cincinnati community. The club keeps bringing him back, extending his contract through the 2023 season.

MLS Cup and Playoff Involvement

With Toronto FC, Hagglund played some high-stakes playoff soccer. The highlight? That unforgettable 2017 MLS Cup win over Seattle.

Hagglund stepped up in the playoffs, making clutch defensive plays. He marked, cleared, and won crucial aerial battles in tight games.

Toronto relied on him during playoff runs from 2015 to 2018. That championship ring? It’s a testament to Hagglund’s value when the lights are brightest.

U.S. Open Cup Appearances

Nick Hagglund keeps showing up in the U.S. Open Cup, which is still the oldest running national soccer competition in the U.S. He’s played in knockout-style tournament matches for both Toronto FC and FC Cincinnati, and you can see that edge in his game during those elimination moments.

Back with Toronto, Hagglund helped push the club deep into the tournament. Once he landed in Cincinnati, he kept logging minutes in Open Cup matches, squaring off with rivals and top clubs across the league.

His defensive instincts and that veteran presence have really come through in these single-elimination games.

When FC Cincinnati needed someone to keep the team cool in tournament play, Hagglund stepped up and guided the younger guys through the pressure. He’s a steady pick for cup lineups, and that’s not just coach-speak.

College and Youth Career

Nick Hagglund laid the groundwork for his pro career with standout performances in high school and college. Those early years on the pitch shaped him into a smart, steady defender.

Xavier University Achievements

From 2010 to 2013, Hagglund made his mark at Xavier University. He jumped right into the starting lineup as a freshman and helped the Musketeers reach their first Atlantic 10 Championship.

He played 81 matches over four years, holding down the back line and keeping things organized.

During his college run, Hagglund picked up honors like Atlantic 10 Defender of the Year and Big East Defender of the Year. He even earned All-American recognition and landed a spot in the Xavier Athletics Hall of Fame.

Key Career Stats at Xavier University

Year	Matches Played	Awards
2010-2013	81	A-10 Defender of the Year, Big East Defender of the Year, All-American, Xavier Hall of Fame

Hagglund’s leadership helped Xavier take big steps forward, and by his senior season, a lot of folks called him one of the top defenders in college soccer. His stats and reputation made him a hot name for the MLS draft.

Lakota West High School Legacy

Before college, Hagglund starred at Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio. He played both defense and offense, showing versatility you just don’t see every day at that age.

As a student-athlete, he earned first-team all-conference honors and helped Lakota West reach the playoffs.

He didn’t get the All-American nod in high school, but his relentless work ethic and smart play left a real impression. Coaches and teammates respected how prepared and steady he was on the back line.

Those high school years really shaped his defensive instincts and leadership skills—traits that stuck with him at Xavier University and later in Cincinnati.

Highlights from Lakota West High School

• First-team all-conference honors
• Team playoff appearances
• Recognized leadership qualities

On-Field Leadership and Club Influence

Nick Hagglund keeps making a difference for FC Cincinnati. He’s a rock in defense and someone who really cares about club loyalty.

His impact shows up in big moments on the field and in how he connects with Cincinnati’s soccer community.

Role in the FC Cincinnati Squad

Since joining FC Cincinnati in 2019, Hagglund has shown what steady leadership looks like. He’s one of the few guys who’s played every MLS season for the club, and that’s huge for team chemistry.

As of June 2025, he’s in the top three for games played in club history.

Here’s a quick look at some numbers:

Stat	Value
Seasons with Club	2019–2025
Games Played (MLS)	139
Minutes Played	Over 7,100
Matches Started	83+

Coach Pat Noonan keeps turning to Hagglund. His ability to stay healthy and available season after season has helped Cincinnati build a solid defensive core.

Stoppage Time and Key Moments

Pressure situations? Hagglund’s been there. He’s come up big in stoppage time and late-game moments, making those clutch tackles and clearances that preserve points.

He often comes on late to shore up the defense, and it’s no accident. FC Cincinnati trusts him to organize the back line and steady the younger guys when things get tense.

Whether he’s starting or coming off the bench, you can hear him barking instructions and keeping everyone locked in.

Club Ambassador and Community Engagement

Off the pitch, Hagglund steps up as a club ambassador and stays involved in Cincinnati’s community. As a hometown guy, his connection to the city feels real, and fans notice.

He shows up at outreach programs and community events all over town. Hagglund uses his platform to support youth development and local soccer.

His visibility in Cincinnati—especially after re-signing through 2027—just proves his dedication to the club and the city. The club announcement said it all.

Notable Opponents and Rivalries

Hagglund’s run with FC Cincinnati has put him up against some of MLS’s best. These matches bring out the energy, the emotion, and the hard tackles.

Matches Against Columbus Crew

Columbus Crew is the big rival, no question. The “Hell is Real” derby gets wild, and Hagglund—being a Cincinnati native—brings all that local pride when he anchors the back line.

He shifts between zonal coverage and man-marking, depending on what the Crew throw at him. These games are tight and tense, with every tackle under the microscope.

He’s made some clutch clearances and won big aerial duels in these derbies. The Crew’s quick attacks really test defenders like Hagglund, forcing him to read the game and break up plays before they get dangerous.

Date	Result	Minutes Played	Key Defensive Actions
2023-09-16	3-0 (Crew)	90	7 clearances, 3 blocks
2022-07-17	2-2	89	5 interceptions

Contests with Atlanta United FC

When Atlanta United comes to town, Hagglund finds himself tracking crafty forwards and dealing with those quick midfielders. Atlanta’s attack forces defenders to stay sharp and communicate constantly.

One game in 2025 really stands out—Hagglund suffered a scary injury just ten minutes in, with two broken ribs and a collapsed lung after a tough collision. That’s brutal, but it shows how physical these games can get.

Even before that, he’d shown he could handle Atlanta’s pace, winning headers and keeping things tight at the back. Atlanta’s pressing game keeps him on his toes, and he’s had to improve his passing under pressure. More on his injury and that match here.

Meetings with New England Revolution

Facing New England Revolution, Hagglund deals with a side that loves quick, tactical play. He pays extra attention to his positioning, since New England’s midfielders look for those sneaky passing lanes.

He reads the game well, intercepting diagonal balls and organizing teammates on set pieces. There’s always a physical battle with New England’s forwards, and Hagglund’s calm approach helps Cincinnati avoid costly mistakes.

With New England pushing for playoff spots lately, these games have gotten even more intense. Hagglund’s experience and poise give Cincinnati the kind of stability you need in those tight, high-stakes matches.

Key Battles with Esmir Bajraktarevic

All right, folks, let’s talk about Esmir Bajraktarevic—a name you’re probably going to hear a lot more of soon. This guy’s a rising challenge, no doubt about it.

Bajraktarevic darts around defenders with those quick feet and sharp changes of direction. He’s always looking to catch you off balance.

When he lines up against Hagglund, it’s all about timing and anticipation. You can almost feel the tension building in those moments.

Hagglund doesn’t wait around. He gets into position early and steps into tackles, trying to mess up Bajraktarevic’s rhythm.

He relies on strength, pushing through shoulder-to-shoulder battles but staying smart to avoid fouls. Bajraktarevic keeps testing him, looking for even the smallest mistakes.

Honestly, watching these two go at it feels like a classic clash—Hagglund’s experience and muscle against Bajraktarevic’s youthful energy and skill. These matchups? They’re snapshots of what’s changing and growing in this league.