Columbus Crew Sign Young Azerbaijani Forward Nariman Akhundzada

21-year-old joins MLS club on long-term deal using U22 Initiative

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Columbus Crew has acquired 21-year-old forward Nariman Akhundzada from Qarabağ FK in Azerbaijan, signing him to a contract through 2029. Akhundzada, an Azerbaijani international, brings experience in European competitions like the UEFA Champions League and Europa League to the MLS club.

Why it matters

The signing of the young, talented Akhundzada demonstrates the Crew's commitment to building a competitive roster capable of succeeding both domestically and internationally. The U22 Initiative allows the team to invest in promising youth while maintaining roster flexibility.

The details

Akhundzada joins the Crew after recording 35 goals and 17 assists in 127 appearances for Qarabağ FK since his debut in the 2022-23 season. The forward has also earned 13 caps for the Azerbaijan national team, including five starts in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

  • Akhundzada debuted with Qarabağ on October 30, 2022.
  • The Crew will open their 2026 season on February 21 against the Portland Timbers.

The players

Nariman Akhundzada

A 21-year-old forward who joins the Columbus Crew from Qarabağ FK in Azerbaijan, where he recorded 35 goals and 17 assists in 127 appearances.

Issa Tall

The General Manager of the Columbus Crew, who expressed enthusiasm about Akhundzada's acquisition and highlighted his technical abilities and work rate.

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What they’re saying

“Nariman brings a different skillset that will add another dimension to our team. His technical abilities, combined with his work rate, will align well with our style of play.”

— Issa Tall, General Manager, Columbus Crew (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The Crew will open their 2026 season on February 21 with an away match against the Portland Timbers, scheduled for 10:30 pm ET and broadcast on Apple TV.

The takeaway

The signing of the young, talented Azerbaijani forward Nariman Akhundzada demonstrates the Columbus Crew's commitment to building a competitive roster capable of succeeding both domestically and internationally, leveraging the MLS U22 Initiative to invest in promising youth.