Maximilian "Max" Arfsten is an American professional soccer player born on April 19, 2001, who currently plays as a left-back or left wing-back for EFL Championship club Middlesbrough and the United States national team. After a standout high school career in California, he starred at UC Davis, earning Big West Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2021 before turning pro. Drafted 14th overall by the Columbus Crew in 2023, he scored on his MLS debut, helped the team win the MLS Cup that season, and became a regular starter in 2024, capturing the Leagues Cup and signing a contract extension through 2027. In August 2026, he signed a four-year deal with Middlesbrough in England. On the international stage, Arfsten made his USMNT debut in January 2025 and scored his first international goal in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal against Panama.