Pipa isn’t going anywhere.
Although he recently expressed uncertainty about his future in MLS, Federico Higuain was signed by Columbus Crew SC on Tuesday to a one-year Designated Player contract extension through the 2018 season.
The Argentine midfielder is currently wrapping up his sixth season with Columbus, recently setting a career high in single-season assists with 11 to go along with his nine goals. Throughout his illustrious MLS career, the unassuming star has made 147 regular-season appearance (142 starts) while amassing 48 goals and 46 assists — one of only three players in club history to register at least 40 goals and 40 assists.
“We are pleased to announce that Federico Higuain will be in Black & Gold as a Designated Player for the 2018 season,” Columbus head coach and sporting director Gregg Berhalter said in a statement. “Federico has been instrumental in establishing our style of play over the last four years and played a significant role in helping the club secure playoff berths in three of those four seasons. Federico’s professionalism, character and humility off the field coupled with his undeniable, difference-maker ability on the field, make him one of the greatest players ever to wear a Columbus Crew SC jersey.”
Crew SC have already clinched a spot in the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs and have two games left in the regular season, facing Orlando City SC in an Oct. 15 road tilt (5 pm ET, MLS LIVE).
