In a surprising move, FC Cincinnati has announced the departure of veteran center back Matt Miazga just ahead of their home match against D.C. United on September 5. Miazga confirmed his exit via his Instagram account on September 4, with initial reports coming from Laurel Pfahler of Queen City Press.
Miazga's exit comes as he was set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2026 season. Reports from Pfahler and Tom Bogert of The Athletic indicate that negotiations regarding the terms of his departure have been ongoing. Following this move, Miazga is now free to sign with another club, and Bogert has speculated that he might join another team within Major League Soccer (MLS) before the current season wraps up.
This decision significantly alters FC Cincinnati's defensive lineup ahead of their match against D.C. United at TQL Stadium. The team will also be without Samuel Gidi, who is still under concussion protocol, further complicating their defensive strategy.
The reasoning behind Miazga's release may be linked to financial considerations, as he had a base salary of $1.6 million, ranking as the fourth-highest among center backs in the league as of May 12. FC Cincinnati recently acquired center back Julian Malatini and wingback David Doudera during the MLS transfer window, and General Manager Chris Albright has indicated that the club is actively seeking to sign additional free agents.
Defensively, FC Cincinnati has struggled this season, conceding 51 goals in just 22 MLS matches, averaging 2.3 goals allowed per game, which ranks as the third-highest in the league. This defensive vulnerability may have prompted the club to make changes in an effort to bolster their back line.
Miazga, 31, joined FC Cincinnati late in the 2022 season, contributing to the team’s first playoff appearance. During his tenure, he started 10 games in that inaugural playoff season and was named the MLS Defender of the Year in 2023, playing a key role in helping the team secure the MLS Supporters’ Shield. Over his time with the club, he has made 84 starts, although injuries have hindered his availability, as he played only 16 games in 2024 and 14 out of 22 this season.
In a heartfelt message to FC Cincinnati fans on his Instagram, Miazga expressed gratitude for his time with the club, stating, “Thank you Cincinnati for the last 4 years! What a ride it’s been. I wish I was able to say goodbye the right way at TQL in front of you all. I’m so proud of everything we built together and the success we were able to share.” He concluded by sharing the personal significance of Cincinnati, noting, “My 3 children were born here and Cincy will always have a special place in our hearts.”
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