The Columbus Crew announced Tuesday morning that the club has re-signed defender Steven Moreira through the 2025 season, with a club option for 2026. Moreira just completed his second full season with the Black & Gold, forming a key piece in Columbus winning the 2023 MLS Cup.

Since joining the Crew, Moreira has recorded 82 appearances in all competitions, tallying two goals and 15 assists.

Joining from Toulouse FC in 2021, Moreira made just seven regular-season appearances (six starts) in his first season.

In 2022, Moreira recorded 32 appearances (all starts), registering one goal and eight assists. Moreira helped the Black & Gold secure a tie against in-state rivals FC Cincinnati when his strike from distance in second half stoppage time helped Columbus claw back from a 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2 at TQL Stadium.

“We are excited to announce that we have re-signed Steven to a new contract,” Crew president and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said. “Since joining the Crew, Steven has been a loyal and dependable asset to the club, showing his leadership, skill and tenacity since the moment he sported the Black & Gold. His work ethic on and off the field serves as an example to his teammates, and how he values his connection with our supporters.”

Just this year, the French defender made 34 appearances (33 starts) and notched five assists in the regular season before starting every post-season match en route to helping Columbus lift the MLS Cup for the third time in franchise history. Moreira has tallied 6,813 total minutes for the Crew.

In addition to helping Columbus win the MLS Cup, Moreira also helped the Black & Gold capture the 2021 Campeones Cup and the 2023 Eastern Conference Championship.

A member of the Cape Verde national team, Moreira made his international debut against Algeria in an international friendly on Oct. 12. Moreira also represented France during his youth, including the 2013 UEFA European U-19 Championship, where they placed second.