Left Backs MLS Talent Identification Project
Kai Wagner Fullback
Age : 28
Nationality : Germany
Club : Philadelphia Union
Height : 182cm/6’0″
Weight : 78kg / 171lbs
Foot : Left
Market Value : £4.3 Million
Release Clause : £1.5 Million
Wages : £17,000 per week (est)
Contract Expiry : 31/12/2026
Introduction A relentless, creative force.
Kai Wagner is a dynamic left-back whose defensive reliability and attacking drive has made him a standout in Major League Soccer. A consistent starter for Philadelphia Union since 2019, he offers sharp positional awareness with excellent timing in tackles, and is rarely beaten in 1 v 1 duels. On the ball, Wagner’s cultured left foot delivers precise switches of play and some of the league’s most dangerous crossing, underpinning a steady stream of assists from deep and advanced areas alike. His engine allows him to shuttle relentlessly up and down the flank, maintaining defensive shape while providing width and creativity in transition. With extensive MLS experience and proven end product, he profiles as a solid solution for clubs seeking a modern full-back who can anchor the back line and initiate attacks in equal measure.
Best Roles ScoutDeck® Framework Scores
Season Stats 2024 - 2025
Appearances : 28
Minutes Played : 2700
Defensive Duels per 90 : 7.93
Defensive Duels Won % : 63%
Aerial Duels per 90 : 2.67
Aerial Duels Won % : 57.5%
Assists : 9
xA per 90 : 0.32
Strengths Best Attributes
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Tackling
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1 v 1 Duels
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Passing
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Crossing
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Set-Pieces
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Chance Creation
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Anticipation
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Concentration
Weaknesses Areas to Improve
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Tendency to Slide Tackle
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Tries killer balls often
Overall Ratings - MLS Fullbacks In specialist Portsmouth FC Framework
The graph below ranks every left back in the MLS 2025 Season in a specialist ScoutDeck® Portsmouth FC Framework. Players must have played a minimum of 600 minutes to qualify.
Category Scores in Portsmouth FC Fullback Framework
Kai Wagner scores impressively in four out of five categories in the Portsmouth Fullback framework thanks to his elite defensive abilities, combined with his ability to create high quality chances for his team.
What does this mean?
- Defence : 99/100 – Elite score showcasing his defensive reliability
- Aerial : 79/100 – Strong in the air and consistently competitive
- Crossing : 98/100 – Excellent ball delivery adds an extra dimension to his overall game
- Chance Creation : 100/100 – Elite chance creation and provision of high quality chances for teammates
- Ball Carrying : 24/100 – Wagner focuses on build-up play and passing rather than ball carrying
Wagner versus Ogilvie MLS 2025 vs Championship 2024-25
Progressive Passes Kai Wagner - Last 5 Games
This map shows Kai Wagner’s progressive passes over the last five games. A forward-thinking left-back, he consistently looks to advance play from deep, mixing shorter line-breaking passes into midfield with longer switches into advanced wide areas. His distribution regularly finds teammates in attacking positions, with multiple entries into the final third and edge of the box. Wagner’s range and execution make him a reliable outlet in build-up while also providing penetration and variety to disrupt opposition defensive structures.
Progressive Passes Connor Ogilvie - Last 5 Games
The map below shows Connor Ogilvie’s progressive passes over the last five games. He plays in a straightforward manner, moving the ball safely down the left flank and into wide attacking areas. While reliable and consistent, his influence in deeper build-up is limited, with little progression through central zones or variation in his passing. Ogilvie provides stability and territory, though his technical limitations mean he has a reduced impact on build-up play.
Key Passes Kai Wagner 24-25 Season
These are Kai Wagner’s 24 key passes from last season, each leading directly to a shot. Operating as a left-back, he consistently delivers into advanced areas, with the majority aimed at the edge of the box or into central attacking zones. His crossing and final-third passing make him a clear creative outlet, reflected in an xA of 0.32 per 90, one of the strongest outputs for his position. Wagner’s distribution underlines his value as an attacking full-back, offering consistent chance creation from the left side.
Key Passes Connor Ogilvie 24-25 Season
Across last season, Connor Ogilvie produced just 10 key passes, each leading directly to a shot. Operating as a left-back, his chance creation was limited, with most passes coming from straightforward deliveries into the box rather than varied or incisive play. His xA of 0.03 per 90 reflects a minimal creative influence, offering little impact in possession beyond basic service. Ogilvie provides defensive stability, but his contribution to chance creation remains very restricted and in need of improvement.
Touch Map Kai Wagner - Last 5 Games
Wagner’s touch map illustrates just how involved he is down the left flank, with consistent activity in both deep build-up and advanced areas. He regularly collects possession in his own half to initiate progression, and pushes high into the final third to support attacks. In his last five games he registered 426 touches, an average of 85 per game, which is unusually high for a left-back and closer to central midfielder levels. This underlines his role as both a reliable outlet in possession and a full-back who contributes to chance creation.
Touch Map Connor Ogilvie - Last 5 Games
Ogilvie’s touch map reflects a more conservative profile at left-back, with the majority of his involvement coming deeper in his own half and along the defensive third. While he does advance into wide attacking areas, his overall influence on possession phases is limited, with fewer touches in central zones or the final third. Across his last five games he registered 304 touches, an average of 61 per game, underlining a role focused more on defensive security and recycling possession rather than driving progression.
Defensive Action Map Kai Wagner - Last 5 Games
Wagner’s defensive actions are concentrated down the left flank, showing reliability in protecting his defensive channel while also stepping higher to press and disrupt wide attacks.
Defensive Action Map Connor Ogilvie - Last 5 Games
Ogilvie’s defensive actions are concentrated around his own box, reflecting a traditional full-back who prioritises clearances and duels in deep areas.
Championship Left Backs in Portsmouth Fullback Framework
We analysed Kai Wagner’s 2025 MLS data against every Championship left-back from the 2024–25 season.
To ensure accuracy, we adjusted for a league strength coefficient of 0.85, reflecting that the MLS is estimated to be around 15% less competitive than the Championship, and integrated this into our framework calculations to estimate how Wagner’s performance would translate if he were to make the move.
For context, we have also included Portsmouth’s current first-choice left-back, Connor Ogilvie, within the chart. This allows a direct comparison, showing how both players rank on a 0–100 scale across key attributes, using our bespoke Portsmouth left-back framework model.
Kai Wagner Ranking versus EFL Championship Left Backs
Comparison Stats compared to Championship Left Backs 24-25
Key Passes per 90 vs Expected Assists per 90
- Key Passes per 90 = 0.70
- Expected Assists (xA) per 90 = 0.32
Progressive Carries per 90 vs Progressive Passes per 90
- Progressive Carries per 90 = 1.35
- Progressive Passes per 90 = 12.8
PAdj Interceptions vs Defensive Duels per 90
- PAdj Interceptions = 7.98
- Defensive Duels per 90 = 6.80
Aerial Duels per 90 vs Aerial Duels Won, %
- Aerial Duels per 90 = 2.67
- Aerial Duels Won, % = 57.5
Set Pieces Delivering extra set-piece value
Kai Wagner delivers the majority of Philadelphia Union’s set-pieces, around 85 – 90% of corners and most wide free-kicks, helping drive their set-piece xG to 0.49 per game, compared to Portsmouth’s 0.38.
That 0.11 gap, over a Championship season, equates to several additional goals purely from dead-ball situations. With roughly 20% of all goals in the division scored from set-pieces (excluding penalties), adding a specialist like Wagner could give Portsmouth a vital tactical edge, turning routine corners and free-kicks into match-winning opportunities.
Injury History and Game Availability
Since signing for Philadelphia Union, Kai Wagner has been available for 209 of 224 MLS matches, giving him an outstanding 93% availability rate. Over seven seasons he has missed just 15 league games, which is remarkable for a fullback in such a physically demanding role.
This level of consistency reduces disruption to team structure and provides coaches with the confidence to build tactical systems around him. His durability not only safeguards tactical continuity but also lessens the financial and sporting risks associated with injuries. Wagner’s reliability ensures his influence, whether through progressive play, defensive contribution, or set-piece delivery, is almost always present, making him both a technical asset and a dependable cornerstone in squad planning.
Video Analysis Kai Wagner Highlights
FA Four Corner Profile Kai Wagner
Technical
Wagner offers a well-rounded technical base that combines secure possession with consistent end product. His left foot provides a reliable outlet for switches of play and progressive distribution, enabling Portsmouth to move opponents laterally and open space in advanced areas. Beyond ball circulation, his crossing is a genuine weapon: he delivers with variety, able to whip balls into the near post or stand them up to the far post, giving forwards multiple types of service. As Portsmouth look to increase their output from wide areas, Wagner’s proven creativity from both open play and set-pieces represents a significant attacking upgrade.
Tactical
Defensively, Wagner shows strong positional awareness and a good understanding of when to engage versus when to delay, making him a steady presence in one-v-one duels. He balances his attacking instincts with discipline, rarely leaving unnecessary gaps behind him, which would be vital in the Championship’s transitional game. Offensively, he integrates well into structured build-up, stepping into midfield pockets to connect play or overlapping aggressively when space opens up. For Portsmouth, this tactical flexibility means he can adapt to both a back four or wing-back role, while still offering defensive solidity against the pace and directness of Championship opposition.
Physical
Durability is one of Wagner’s standout qualities. Across seven MLS seasons he has been available for selection over 90% of the time, missing very few games through injury or suspension. This level of availability ensures Portsmouth would gain not just a quality player, but a consistently present one, crucial across a 46-game Championship season with its intensity and physical demands. He covers ground efficiently, with the capacity to repeat sprints on the overlap while still recovering defensively. His conditioning allows him to maintain output late into games, reducing drop-off and ensuring reliability across congested fixture periods.
Psychological
Wagner brings maturity, composure, and a clear sense of responsibility. As Philadelphia Union’s set-piece specialist, he has shown confidence in delivering under pressure and consistency across multiple seasons, reflecting both self-assurance and professionalism. His mentality is steady rather than erratic: he offers teammates reassurance in possession and resilience out of it. For Portsmouth, he would bring an experienced, dependable figure who thrives on consistency and who is accustomed to being trusted in high-stakes situations. His leadership through reliability, rather than vocal dominance, would add an understated but valuable edge to the squad.
Summary A transformative signing for Pompey
Bringing in Kai Wagner would represent a decisive move for Portsmouth both on and off the pitch. At 28, he is in his prime years and has already established himself as one of Major League Soccer’s standout full-backs, consistently ranking among the league leaders for defensive reliability, progressive passing, and chance creation from wide areas. His signing would immediately raise the level of the left-back position, providing a proven two-way contributor who can deliver security out of possession and genuine attacking value through his distribution, crossing, and set-piece delivery.
Wagner’s availability record is exceptional, making him a dependable performer across the long Championship campaign. His durability and conditioning mean he can handle the intensity and fixture congestion of English football, offering stability in a role where continuity is vital. For Portsmouth, this ensures not just quality but consistency — reducing risk and enhancing reliability in one of the squad’s most demanding positions.
Beyond the pitch, Wagner brings profile and marketability. As a leading MLS player moving into the Championship, his arrival would generate interest beyond Portsmouth’s traditional fanbase, with potential to drive shirt sales and grow the club’s visibility in the North American market. Combined with his on-field impact, this makes the deal both a footballing and commercial opportunity.
Alternative Options MLS Talent Identification Project
Devin Padelford Fullback
Age : 22
Nationality : United States
Club : St Louis City (Loan)
Height : 182cm/6’0″
Weight : 78kg / 171lbs
Foot : Left
Contract Expiry : 31/12/2025
Introduction Athleticism and reliability
Devin Padelford is an athletic left-back who combines defensive ability with a natural drive to progress play. Comfortable defending in space, he reads danger early and recovers quickly to win duels and limit opposition wingers. In possession, Padelford is confident carrying the ball and linking with the midfield or attack, and his delivery from wide areas can create consistent chances for teammates. Padelford offers energy and composure on both sides of the ball, making him an appealing option for clubs seeking a full-back who is effective in transitions as well as reliable in defence.
Best Roles ScoutDeck® Framework Scores
Season Stats 2024 - 2025
Appearances : 11
Minutes Played : 748
Defensive Duels per 90 : 7.22
Defensive Duels Won % : 73.3%
Aerial Duels per 90 : 2.04
Aerial Duels Won % : 52.9%
Assists : 0
xA per 90 : 0.07
Strengths Best Attributes
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Tackling
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1 v 1 Duels
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Heading
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Defensive Positioning
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Ball Carrying
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Composure
Weaknesses Areas to Improve
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Passing Range
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Attacking Threat
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Acceleration
Padelford vs Ogilvie MLS 2025 and Championship 2024-25
Defensive Solidity : Strong in 1v1 duels and interceptions, giving Pompey extra reliability at the back. Reads the game well for his age, limiting the number of dangerous situations he allows opponents to create.
Physical Profile Suited to the Championship : At 6ft+ with solid aerial duel success, he brings presence in both defensive and attacking set-pieces. His physicality and work rate align with the demands of English football.
Attacking Contribution from Deep : Comfortable pushing forward from left-back, offering width and delivery from wide areas. His background as an attacker means he’s confident overlapping, linking play, and supporting chance creation.
Room to Develop & Resale Potential : At 22, he is still developing, Portsmouth could mould him into a long-term starter. Fits the model of buying emerging talent from outside the Championship with strong resale value.
Proven Durability & Adaptability : Featured consistently for Minnesota United, stepping into senior football without hesitation. His transition from forward to defender highlights tactical flexibility and coachability.
Mentality and Work Ethic : Coaches highlight his maturity and willingness to adapt, showing leadership qualities beyond his years. Brings a committed, team-first approach that aligns with Portsmouth’s culture.
Travian Sousa Fullback
Age : 24
Nationality : United States
Club : Seattle Sounders
Height : 180cm/5’11”
Weight : 79kg / 174lbs
Foot : Left
Contract Expiry : 31/12/2025
Introduction A progressive, attacking threat
Travian Sousa is an attack-minded left-back with the pedigree of a player once highly regarded in Hamburg’s academy, where his pace, technical quality, and confidence on the ball drew significant attention. He carries that European grounding into his current game, showing composure in possession, sharp recovery speed, and the ability to progress play down the flank. Sousa defends with aggression, recovers ground quickly, and is comfortable stepping into midfield to link passes or start transitions. His left foot delivers good crosses and clever cut-backs, adding consistent threat in the final third. While past seasons have included occasional discipline lapses, he has worked to channel that intensity productively and projects as a dynamic full-back who can influence games at both ends.
Best Roles ScoutDeck® Framework Scores
Season Stats 2024 - 2025
Appearances : 16
Minutes Played : 1297
Defensive Duels per 90 : 6.38
Defensive Duels Won % : 63.0%
Aerial Duels per 90 : 1.39
Aerial Duels Won % : 30.0%
Assists : 1
xA per 90 : 0.22
Strengths Best Attributes
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Chance Creation
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Speed
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Pressing
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Passing Range
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Ball Carrying
Weaknesses Areas to Improve
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Defensive Positioning
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Aerial
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Discipline
Sousa vs Ogilvie MLS 2025 and Championship 2024-25
Defensive & Positional Strengths : Operates primarily as a left-back, providing reliable width and defensive coverage. Comfortable in 1v1 duels and capable of contributing in transition.
Physical & Athletic Profile : At 5’11’’ with a strong build, he combines mobility with physicality. His athleticism and energy allow him to support both defensive and attacking phases effectively.
Attacking Contribution from Wide Areas : Confident pushing forward to overlap and deliver crosses, while also offering link-up play in transition. Tulsa describe him as adding “another dimension” with his forward runs.
Experience & Adaptability : Developed through US academies before moving to Hamburg’s youth system in Germany. Has since played for Sporting KC II, Oakland Roots, Tacoma Defiance, and now Seattle/Tulsa, showing adaptability across different environments.
Past Behavioural Issues : His contract with Hamburger SV was terminated for disciplinary reasons, and Sporting KC II also ended his deal early. Has collected cautions and a red card at USL/MLS Next Pro level, discipline and mentality would need to be monitored closely.
Mentality and Work Ethic : Despite setbacks, has rebuilt his career path through hard work and persistence, earning a senior Sounders contract and loan to Tulsa. Shows resilience and determination to prove himself.
The Domestic Option Homegrown potential
Max Conway Fullback
Age : 22
Nationality : England
Club : Bolton Wanderers
Height : 180cm/5’11”
Weight : 73kg / 160lbs
Foot : Left
Contract Expiry : 30/06/2026
Introduction An all-rounder with big potential
Max Conway is a talented, direct left-back who has quickly become one of Bolton Wanderers’ most exciting young players following a standout 2024–25 loan at Crewe Alexandra, where he was voted Player of the Year. Now firmly established in Bolton’s first team, the 22-year-old has opened the 2025–26 campaign impressively, already supplying assists and ranking among League One’s best full-backs for key passes and chance creation. His confident ball-carrying, sharp delivery from wide areas, and high duel success rate give Bolton constant width and attacking impetus, while his pace and recovery speed allow him to defend proactively and snuff out danger. With top-level athleticism, technical quality, and consistency, Conway profiles as an exciting full-back on an upward trajectory toward Championship level and beyond.
Best Roles ScoutDeck® Framework Scores
Season Stats 2024 - 2025
Appearances : 46
Minutes Played : 4078
Defensive Duels per 90 : 7.26
Defensive Duels Won % : 57.1%
Aerial Duels per 90 : 4.1
Aerial Duels Won % : 46.7%
Assists : 1
xA per 90 : 0.02
Strengths Best Attributes
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Ball Carrying
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Tackling
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1 v 1 Duels
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Concentration
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Passing
Weaknesses Areas to Improve
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Physicality
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Aerial
Conway vs Ogilvie League Two and Championship 2024-25
Ball Carrying and Dribbling Ability : Highly rated for his dribbling, Conway is comfortable carrying the ball from deep and progressing play into advanced areas, a valuable trait for a modern full-back in possession-oriented systems.
Defensive Commitment : Strong in the tackle and willing to put his body on the line, showing concentration and awareness when tracking runners or blocking shots.
Engine and Stamina : Possesses excellent endurance, allowing him to contribute consistently up and down the flank across 90 minutes, ideal for the Championship’s demanding schedule.
Positional Versatility : Capable of operating as a traditional left-back, wing-back, or in more advanced wide roles. Offers Portsmouth tactical flexibility in different systems.
Proven Pedigree League Two Young Player of the Year : Recognised as one of the standout young talents in the EFL, underlining both his performance level and potential ceiling.
Experience Across Levels : Despite being young, he has already gained valuable senior minutes through multiple loan spells in League Two and the National League, demonstrating adaptability to different environments and styles of play.
Room to Develop and Value Growth : At just 21, Conway is still developing his all-round game. With the right coaching and Championship exposure, he has potential to become both a long-term option and an asset with resale value.
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