Finally good news for Crew fans as season opener approaches | OneFootball

It was a cold Sunday in Columbus, but it wasn't enough to ice the excitement for the first match week of the season. Surely nothing else could be announced before the game on Saturday that would shake the confidence and optimism of Crew fans, haven't we gone through enough already? Then it happened, an alert from the Crew with breaking news. This time it was actually good news though. Columbus Crew announced the extension of star keeper Patrick Schulte who they've now signed through the 2027 season with a club option for 2028.

This is a big extension and one that should be celebrated. A rising star who is only 23 years old and has already earned a few appearances for the US Men's National Team (three caps). On top of that tremendous accomplishment he's earned the following:

Schulte provides this team a level of confidence he can be trusted and relied on if the defense breaks down. His distribution out of the back is second to none, and can lead his strikers on breaks if he catches the opposing defense asleep. With all that's happened recently with personnel this was a very welcomed change. Schulte will need to improve on his decision making and assertiveness as he continues to grow under Nancy's leadership, but there is no doubt he belongs in the conversations of best goalkeepers in the MLS.

There were already rumors flying around during the season last year the Crew were receiving interest from other clubs regarding Schulte's availability. This extension will close those doors for now, which is a much needed boost for this team and its fans. While it may fly under the radar across the MLS, It's massive news for a Columbus team looking to stay in the conversation as one of the top teams in the league. It's an "A" move for General Manager Issa Tall who understands the Winter transfer window is tougher to grab top quality players, and replacing the likes of a Cucho Hernandez may have to wait until Summer.

Columbus is set to begin the season this Saturday, February 22 in what is sure to be a brisk evening at Lower.com field. Hopefully knowing Schulte isn't going anywhere will warm the hearts and ease the minds of Crew fans as the season gets underway.