Columbus Crew sign forward Max Arfsten

The Columbus Crew have signed their top pick from the 2023 MLS SuperDraft, announcing that Maximilian “Max” Arfsten has joined the club.

SuperDraft Pick to the First Team 🙌

The Crew signs 2023 MLS SuperDraft pick Max Arfsten through the 2024 season with options for 2025 and 2026.#Crew96 | #VamosColumbus https://t.co/iSLbNqwRZd

— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) February 21, 2023

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He joined Columbus after spending 2022 in MLS Next Pro with San Jose Earthquakes II, notching 9g/6a over 24 appearances.

He also played at UC Davis between 2019-21, earning Big West Conference All-Freshman Team honors while scoring eight goals and seven assists in his final collegiate season.

Selected 14th overall (first round), the 21-year-old forward has signed through the 2024 season with options for 2025-26.

“Max’s hard work and attitude along with his ability to make an impact in the attack did not go unnoticed throughout preseason, and we are excited to see him earn a spot on our first-team roster,” Crew president and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said.

“We are looking forward to working with Max as he continues his development as a player in a first-team environment.”