Columbus Crew SC maestro Federico Higuain has signed a one-year contract extension, the club confirmed Thursday, retaining the Argentine playmaker on a Designated Player deal through the 2019 MLS season.
Higuain, 33, has made 157 regular-season appearances for Crew SC since joining in 2012, scoring 50 goals and recording 52 assists. He is the only player in Crew history to reach the 50-goal, 50-assist combined tally.
"In addition to being one of the premier playmakers in MLS, Federico is a model professional who leads by example," Crew SC head coach Gregg Berhalter said in a club-issued statement.
"Federico has consistently performed at a high level for many years now, which is a testament to both his quality and work ethic, and so we are pleased to reach a contract extension for the 2019 campaign.
"We are excited to see how a player with a historic career continues to add to his legacy as a player and a teammate, on and off the field. Federico is an important part of this system and as a team, we remain committed in our push for another return to the postseason."
While Higuain's commitment is cause for celebration among the team's fans, it may prove a mere silver lining for many Ohioan supporters should owner Anthony Precourt prove successful in his bid to relocate the club to Austin, Texas.