FC Cincinnati parts ways with Matt Miazga ahead of D.C. United game

FC Cincinnati has terminated the contract of veteran center back Matt Miazga prior to their upcoming home match against D.C. United on September 5. The news surfaced on September 4 when Miazga confirmed his departure via Instagram. The report was initially shared on Friday afternoon by Queen City Press' Laurel Pfahler.

Miazga was slated to become a free agent at the end of the 2026 season. According to Pfahler and The Athletic's Tom Bogert, negotiations are underway for the terms of his departure. Miazga is free to sign with any club immediately. Bogert suggested that he may join another Major League Soccer team before the season's end.

The center back's exit disrupts FC Cincinnati's defensive lineup ahead of the D.C. United game at TQL Stadium. Additionally, Samuel Gidi, who has yet to clear concussion protocol, will also not be available for the match. This strategic move could potentially free up some salary cap space for other players.

Miazga's base salary stands at $1.6 million, which was the fourth-highest center back salary in MLS as of May 12. The Cincinnati side recently signed center back Julian Malatini and wingback David Doudera at the conclusion of the MLS transfer window. General Manager Chris Albright mentioned that the club is still in pursuit of additional free agents.

Cincinnati has conceded 51 goals in 22 MLS games, which ranks third highest in the league. Miazga, 31, joined Cincinnati late in the 2022 season when the team made its playoff debut. He started 10 games that year. Miazga was named the MLS Defender of the Year in 2023, contributing to Cincinnati's victory in the MLS Supporters' Shield.

He has played 84 games for Cincinnati, but his availability has been hindered by injuries in recent years. Miazga appeared in just 16 games during the 2024 season and played 14 out of the 22 matches in the current season.