Darlington Nagbe Bio
Darlington Joephillip Nagbe (born July 19, 1990) is a professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder. Born in Liberia, he represents the United States national team. After fleeing Liberia due to the First Liberian Civil War, Nagbe’s family settled in Lakewood, Ohio, where he began his soccer journey with the Cleveland Internationals. He later played college soccer at the University of Akron, where he achieved notable success, including winning an NCAA title and the Hermann Trophy. Over his professional career, Nagbe has played for several teams, including the Portland Timbers, Atlanta United FC, and the Columbus Crew, winning multiple MLS Cups along the way.
Early Life and Background
Darlington Nagbe was born in Monrovia, Liberia, and left the country as an infant when his mother fled due to the First Liberian Civil War. The family moved to various countries, including France, Greece, and Switzerland, before settling in the Cleveland area in 2001 when Nagbe was 11 years old. Growing up in Lakewood, Ohio, he attended Lakewood High School and later St. Edward High School, where he excelled in soccer, scoring 18 goals and providing 10 assists in his senior year. He was actively involved in youth soccer, playing for the Region II Olympic Development Program team and winning multiple state titles with the Cleveland Internationals.
Path to Soccer
Nagbe’s soccer journey began with the Cleveland Internationals, where he played from 2007 to 2010. He then attended the University of Akron, where he made a significant impact on the soccer program. During his college career, he scored 19 goals and provided 19 assists in 73 matches. His performance earned him several accolades, including the Hermann Trophy in 2010, awarded to the top college soccer player in the United States. After forgoing his final year of college eligibility, Nagbe was selected by the Portland Timbers in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Darlington Nagbe Career
Early Career (2007-2010)
Nagbe began his professional career with the Cleveland Internationals in 2007, where he played until 2010. During this time, he developed his skills and gained valuable experience in the USL Premier Development League. His outstanding performance in college soccer led to his selection in the MLS SuperDraft, where he was picked second overall by the Portland Timbers in 2011.
Breakthrough (2011-2017)
Nagbe made his professional debut for the Portland Timbers on April 2, 2011, in a match against the New England Revolution. He quickly made a name for himself, scoring his first MLS goal in a match against Sporting Kansas City, which was later recognized as the MLS Goal of the Year. Over the next several seasons, Nagbe became a key player for the Timbers, contributing to their success in the 2015 MLS Cup, where they emerged as champions. His versatility allowed him to play various roles on the field, and he consistently demonstrated his technical skills and ability to influence games.
Notable Works and Milestones
Nagbe’s signature work includes his contributions to the Portland Timbers’ MLS Cup victory in 2015. He received multiple awards throughout his career, including the Fair Play Award for his sportsmanship and performance on the field.
Darlington Nagbe Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Darlington Nagbe has received numerous nominations for his outstanding performances in soccer, including recognition for his contributions to the U.S. national team and his club teams.
Darlington Nagbe Awards Won
Darlington Nagbe has won several prestigious awards during his career, including the NCAA Title in 2010, the Hermann Trophy in 2010, and multiple MLS Cups with the Portland Timbers, Atlanta United, and Columbus Crew.
Darlington Nagbe Family
Darlington Nagbe is married to Felicia Houtz, and the couple has three children: a daughter named Mila and two sons, Kingston and Isaiah.
Personal Life
Nagbe became a U.S. citizen in September 2015. He has expressed admiration for Thierry Henry, considering him a sporting idol. Nagbe’s family background includes his father, Joe Nagbe, who was a professional soccer player and captain of the Liberian national team.
