Philadelphia Union have officially announced the contract extension of Cameroonian international Olivier Mbaizo, solidifying his future with the club despite interest from other teams.
The 27-year-old right-back, who has been with the Union since 2018, has committed to a one-year extension, keeping him at the Major League Soccer side until 2026. Th
deal also includes options for further extensions through 2027 and 2028, demonstrating the club’s confidence in his abilities.
Philadelphia Union confirmed the extension in an official statement published on their website and shared across social media platforms.
The announcement puts to rest speculation about Mbaizo’s future, which had been the subject of much debate earlier this year due to offers from other clubs.
Ernst Tanner, the Union’s sporting director, expressed satisfaction with retaining the experienced defender, emphasizing his consistent performance and valuable contributions.
“Olivier has been a consistent contributor to our backline since joining us in 2018,” Tanner stated.
“His speed and agility, along with his improving percentage of accurate passes, continue to make him a valuable asset to the team, and we are pleased to have reached an agreement.”
Mbaizo has been a pivotal figure in the Union’s defensive setup, blending his pace and technical skills to bolster the team’s backline.
His ability to adapt and grow, particularly in areas such as pass accuracy, has earned him recognition both within the MLS and internationally with the Cameroon national team.
The new deal not only secures Mbaizo’s presence for the immediate future but also allows the club to maintain stability in their defensive ranks as they aim for continued success.
This contract extension is a significant milestone for Mbaizo, who has been a steadfast presence at the Union for over five years.
With options for additional years, the deal ensures that the Cameroonian remains an integral part of the squad, further strengthening the team’s ambitions in the competitive MLS landscape.
Mbaizo’s commitment to the Union, despite interest from other clubs, underscores his belief in the team’s vision and potential for success.
As the 2024 season approaches, the right-back will aim to build on his impressive form and contribute to the Union’s pursuit of silverware.
