D.C. United have acquired defender Axel Sjöberg from Columbus Crew SC in exchange for midfielder Emmanuel Boateng.
“We are excited to add some important depth at center back ahead of the continuation of the MLS season,” said Dave Kasper, D.C. United General Manager and VP of Soccer Operations. “Axel is a physically imposing center back who was known for his consistency and steadiness during his time in Colorado and we’re looking forward to adding that experience and ability to our roster."
Sjöberg joined Columbus Crew SC on Dec. 4, 2019 after spending the previous five seasons with the Colorado Rapids. The six-foot-seven-inch center back did not appear for the Crew after being loaned out to San Antonio FC in the United Soccer League (USL) Championship from March 6, 2020 to June 30, 2020. Sjöberg made one appearance for San Antonio FC when he played 90 minutes in the 1-0 win against the Real Monarchs on March 8, 2020.
The Swedish defender was a standout for Marquette University and signed with the Colorado Rapids after being selected 14th overall in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. Sjöberg made his MLS debut in the 0-0 draw with the Philadelphia Union on March 7, 2015. In five seasons with the Colorado Rapids, Sjöberg scored three goals and recorded one assist in 88 appearances (84 starts). He scored his first MLS goal in a 1-0 win against the Seattle Sounders on May 21, 2016.
During his four years at Marquette University, Sjöberg was a standout, scoring 11 goals in 63 appearances for the Golden Eagles from 2011 to 2014. For his performances in the backline, Sjöberg earned multiple Big East Player of the Week Awards during his tenure in the Big East Conference.
D.C. United thank Emmanuel Boateng for his commitment and service to the club. We wish him the best of luck in his next chapter in Columbus.
Player:
Axel Sjöberg
Position:
Defender
Birthplace:
Stockholm, Sweden
Country:
Sweden
Birthdate:
03/08/1991
Age:
29
Height:
6’7”
Weight:
209 lbs
Previous Club:
Columbus Crew SC
Status:
Green Card
Transaction:
D.C. United acquire defender Axel Sjöberg from Columbus Crew SC in exchange for midfielder Emmanuel Boateng.
