ST. LOUIS, Mo. (Matrix Midwest) - St. Louis CITY SC has added some championship experience to its 2026 roster.
The club announced it has signed Romanian attacking midfielder Alexandru Mățan through the 2028-29 season.
The 26-year-old spent four seasons in MLS with the Columbus Crew from 2021-2024, recording six goals and 15 assists in 101 appearances while helping the club win the 2023 MLS Cup.
He will be reunited with Head Coach Yoann Damet after they spent two seasons together with the Columbus Crew.
“Alex is a player Yoann and I know very well, not only for the qualities he brings on the field but also his character off it,” said Sporting Director Corey Wray. “He brings something different to the squad with his creativity, his ability to progress the ball and his bravery in one-on-one situations. He has a clear understanding of how we want to play and his familiarity with the system, combined with his experience in the league, should help him settle in quickly.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Mățan began his professional career as a 16-year-old with Romanian club FC Viitorul Constanța in the first division. Mățan most recently spent time with Greek Super League team Panetolikos F.C, recording six goals and three assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
Along with an MLS Cup Championship, his resume includes titles such as the Campeones Cup, the Romanian League title, Super Cup title and league cup title with FC Viitorul Constanța.
In addition to signing him, CITY SC also acquired Columbus Crew’s right of first refusal for Mățan, in exchange for $100,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money.
Mățan will be added to the roster, pending the receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 visa and will occupy an International Roster slot.
His contract comes with a club option for the 2029-30 season.
For more on St. Louis CITY SC, click here.
Copyright 2026 Matrix Midwest. All rights reserved.