Three Northeast Ohio players, including Columbus Crew's Darlington Nagbe and Evan Bush, will have a homecoming in Cleveland as they face Inter Miami CF, featuring Lionel Messi, in an MLS game on April 19. The match, hosted at Huntington Bank Field, aims to grow soccer in Northeast Ohio and expand the Crew's fan base, according to Josh Glessing, Haslam Sports Group Chief of Strategy.
Nagbe, originally from Liberia, has deep roots in Cleveland, having excelled in soccer at Lakewood High School and later with the Akron Zips. Bush, a Concord Township native, also had a successful career with the Zips before joining the Crew. Both players credit their Ohio upbringing for their soccer achievements and look forward to showcasing their skills in their hometown. Additionally, Crew's Sean Zawadzki, an Olmstead Falls native, represents the club's Academy system and is proud to return to Cleveland to play for the team.