Kai Wagner Suspended Three Games By MLS

The left back was handed a three-game ban by MLS on Tuesday.

Philadelphia Union left back Kai Wagner was suspended three games by Major League Soccer on Tuesday.

Wagner was suspended for violating the league’s on-field antidiscrimination policy in the second half of Game 1 of the first-round playoff series with the New England Revolution last Saturday.

Major League Soccer released this statement when it announced the Wagner suspension.

“The suspension is effective immediately and Wagner will be unavailable for the Philadelphia Union match on Wednesday, Nov. 8 against New England Revolution and the Union’s subsequent two MLS matches. If Philadelphia Union is eliminated from further play this season before the suspension is complete, then it will carry forward into the first match of the next season. Wagner is also required to continue to participate in league-mandated education and training sessions, a process which has already begun, and must remain in full compliance with a program directed by a league-appointed restorative practices expert.

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.”

Union head coach Jim Curtin told reporters earlier on Tuesday that Wagner would not travel with the Union for Game 2 against the New England Revolution.

The three-game ban means Wagner could return for MLS Cup if the Union complete the series sweep over the Revs on Wednesday. Wagner could play in the conference final if the Union-Revs series goes three games and the Union win a potential conference semifinal match against FC Cincinnati.

It is also possible that Wagner played his final game for the Union. He can’t play earlier than the conference final. The Union reportedly told Wagner that he is not in the club’s plans for 2024. Wagner is set to become a free agent at the end of the Major League Soccer season.

Photo Courtesy of Philadelphia Union.