Report: Kai Wagner set to return to the Union in shock transfer

The Philadelphia Union didn’t confirm Kai Wagner’s return Thursday night, but they certainly teased it. After multiple reports revealed the club was bringing the German left back back from Birmingham City, the Union posted and now deleted a social media video showing a message notification from an “Old Friend.” The 29-year-old only departed the Union in early January and now returns after half a season in the English Football League Championship.

The Union will reportedly pay a fee of just under $4 million and will sign Wagner to a long-term designated player contract. 

Wagner impressed in 18 games for Birmingham City, recording a goal and three assists in 1,609 minutes. The German dealt with a few minor injuries, but started every game he was available for.

The move abroad had been coming for many years. There were rumors that Wagner would leave the Union during almost all of his seven seasons with the club. Wagner even threw a hibachi dinner for friends and family in the area in October 2023, signaling a last supper before a move away from the club. That move never happened, and he stayed with the Union for two more full seasons. 

Wagner joined the Union in 2019 from Wurzburger Kickers in Germany’s third division as an unknown commodity, but quickly turned into one of the best left backs in MLS. In 253 appearances for the Union, Wagner registered 10 goals and 56 assists. He is the club’s all-time leader in assists. 

The 29-year-old is a three-time MLS All-Star and two-time MLS Best XI selection. He was an integral piece in winning the MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2020 and 2025.

The Union received more than $2 million when they sold Wagner to Birmingham City in January. Former Union sporting director Ernst Tanner had made a promise to Wagner that he would be allowed to leave and reach his goal of playing in Europe again if an offer of $2 million came in.

Now, just over six months into his career in England, Wagner will return to the Union. Reports suggest that it was a family decision to return to Philadelphia. Wagner often made his love of Philadelphia clear, but this move is perhaps his biggest sign of loyalty to the club and city. 

Owen Boyle

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