CHICAGO : The Chicago Fire promoted Philip Zinckernagel to Designated Player status on Wednesday and signed the All-Star winger to a new contract through the 2027-28 Major League Soccer season.
The deal was announced on the final day of MLS’s summer transfer window.
Zinckernagel, who joined Chicago from Belgian club Club Brugge before the start of the 2025 season, has seven goals and seven assists in 26 appearances across all competitions in 2026.
“Philip has earned this recognition through his performance and the consistency he displays week after week,” Fire coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter said.
“He’s been one of the league’s most productive attacking players, and his impact on our club has been significant. We’re pleased to see him rewarded for the contributions he’s made, and we look forward to seeing him continue that form.”
The 31-year-old Dane has been selected as an MLS All-Star in both of his seasons with Chicago. This year, he became the first Fire player to score in the All-Star Game since Cuauhtemoc Blanco in 2008.
Zinckernagel made club history last season by becoming the first Chicago player to record double figures in both goals and assists in a campaign, finishing with 15 goals and 15 assists.
“I’m incredibly grateful to this Club for the opportunity to continue demonstrating my commitment to the team, the city and the fans,” Zinckernagel said.
“Hopefully my play on the field reflects my desire to win championships and achieve great things with the Fire.”
Chicago sit third in the Eastern Conference with 37 points, their best showing since 2017.
Zinckernagel built a decorated career in Europe before moving to the United States, playing in Denmark, Norway, England, Greece and Belgium. His English career included spells with Watford and Nottingham Forest in the Championship.
With Club Brugge in the 2023-24 season, he scored seven goals and provided five assists as the club won the Belgian league title and reached the semifinals of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
