Revs Lock Down Young U.S. Defender From Germany
The New England Revolution just made a statement about their defensive future. They’ve secured 20-year-old center back Ethan Kohler from German Bundesliga side Werder Bremen, signing him through the 2028-29 season with a club option for another year after that.
This isn’t some random depth signing. Kohler’s got serious pedigree—he’s been grinding it out in Germany’s youth ranks and recently earned a loan stint with SC Verl in the German third tier, where he bagged a goal in nine appearances. Not bad for a defender still learning the professional game.
From San Jose Roots to International Stage
Before heading overseas, Kohler came up through the San Jose Earthquakes academy system. But where Revolution fans should really get excited is his performance at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. Under the watch of current Revs head coach Marko Mitrović, Kohler started four matches at center back as the U.S. pushed all the way to the quarterfinals.
That connection matters. Mitrović already knows what he’s getting—a player who’s battle-tested on the international stage and comfortable playing his system. The coach didn’t hold back in his praise either.
“I met and worked with Ethan for the first time almost four years ago. He is an elite professional and highly competitive player, who loves to win. His work ethic and standards are very high, important qualities for our team and environment in creating a winning culture.”
Versatility That Matters
Here’s where things get interesting for New England. Kohler isn’t locked into just one position. Sporting director Curt Onalfo made it clear that the young defender can slot in at both outside back and center back, giving the Revs some much-needed flexibility across the backline.
That kind of versatility is gold in MLS, especially as the season grinds on and injuries inevitably pile up. Mitrović highlighted another crucial aspect of Kohler’s game—his composure on the ball. In a league where teams increasingly want to build from the back, having a defender who can distribute confidently makes a world of difference.
The Revolution kick off their 2026 campaign on February 21 with a road trip to Nashville. With Kohler now in the fold, they’ve added a young, hungry defender who’s already experienced high-pressure situations abroad and on the international stage. For a team looking to rebuild its identity, that’s exactly the kind of player you want walking through the door.
