Philadelphia Union: Kai Wagner out of New England play-off clash after violating league policy
- Seb Sternik
- 7 November 2023
Philadelphia Union will be without defender Kai Wagner after the MLS issued a three-match suspension to the player.
The league decided to punish the 26-year-old for violating on-field anti-discrimination policy during the first play-off match with New England Revolution on Saturday, October 28.
The suspension comes into effect immediately meaning Wagner won’t be in contention for the second play-off fixture with New England on Wednesday.
If Union are eliminated from the play-offs before the suspension is complete, the punishment will carry over into the new season.
The German player has made over 130 MLS appearances for Philadelphia since arriving at the club in 2019 from Wurzburger Kickers.
Wagner came up with an assist as Philadelphia picked up a 3-0 victory over New England in their play-off opener a fortnight ago.
As well as serving the suspension, the left-back will be required to take part in a league-mandated education session.
The MLS wrote on their website: “In reaching this decision, MLS considered many factors, including Wagner’s immediate acceptance of responsibility, willingness to participate in a restorative practices process to repair the harm caused, and his cooperation with the league’s investigation.”
