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Cracovia have pulled off a major coup, bringing Mateusz Klich back to the Ekstraklasa after a 14-year journey across Europe and the MLS. The 35-year-old midfielder, a 41-cap Poland international, signed a two-year contract until June 2027, with the option of a further year, in one of the summer’s most talked-about deals in Polish football.
Mateusz Klich, From Kraków to the World — and Back Again
Klich’s story with Cracovia began in 2005, when he joined from Tarnovia at the age of 13. He made his senior debut in 2008 against GKS Bełchatów and went on to record 58 competitive appearances, scoring five goals and registering 12 assists.
In 2011, a €1.5m transfer took him to VfL Wolfsburg, starting a career that would span the Bundesliga, Eredivisie, Premier League, and MLS. Notable chapters include:
- VfL Wolfsburg (2011–2013) – 21 Bundesliga games.
- PEC Zwolle (2013–2016) – Dutch Cup winner in 2014.
- Leeds United (2017–2023) – 191 appearances, 82 in the Premier League, playing a pivotal role under Marcelo Bielsa to win promotion.
- MLS Stints – DC United and Atlanta United, with 16 appearances for the latter in 2025 before his July exit.
Internationally, Klich earned 41 caps for Poland, scoring twice, and played at Euro 2021. His last appearance for the national team came in September 2022 against the Netherlands.
The Transfer and Presentation – Mateusz Klich
Cracovia confirmed the move on August 13, 2025. Speculation began July 27, per X reports, after his contract with Atlanta United was terminated. The announcement was anything but ordinary: popular influencer and lifelong Cracovia supporter Paris Platynov revealed the signing in a humorous “Comunicado Oficial” video, with Klich greeting fans in Polish and saying, “Siemanko, fajnie wrócić” (“Hello, great to be back”). He has already joined training ahead of a potential debut against Widzew Łódź on August 15.
Club Status Table
| Club/Team | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cracovia | Signed (Aug 13, 2025) | Free transfer; two-year deal with option to 2028; 7th summer signing. |
| Atlanta United | Contract terminated (July) | 16 games, 1 assist in 2025. |
| Poland National Team | Retired | 41 caps, Euro 2021 participant; last played Sep 2022. |
Tactical Role and Impact
Head coach Luka Elsner is expected to use Klich as a creative midfield anchor, drawing on his top-flight experience in multiple leagues. His 7 assists in Leeds United’s 2019/20 promotion season highlight his creative spark. His vision, passing range, and leadership are expected to complement fellow veteran Kamil Glik, another headline summer signing. Cracovia currently sit sixth in the Ekstraklasa after four matches, and Klich’s arrival adds depth, leadership, and a touch of nostalgia to their campaign.
What’s Next for Mateusz Klich?
Klich could make his second Cracovia debut as early as Friday night against Widzew Łódź. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, the home fans will welcome him back as one of their own. The signing also fits a wider Ekstraklasa trend of high-profile Polish internationals returning home, a move that boosts both the league’s profile and its competitive level.
