Midfielder scored fifth-most goals on the team and tied for fourth in assists
PAPILLION, Neb. (April 5, 2022) – Union Omaha announced today that midfielder Emir Alihodžić has been re-signed for the 2022 season, pending league and federation approval. Alihodžić is the eighth member from last year’s USL League One championship squad to announce his return.
Alihodžić scored 3 goals for the Owls last season in his 29 appearances, including the game-winning header against rival club Forward Madison. The performance earned him a spot on the USL League One Team of the Week for Week 9. Before joining Union Omaha, Alihodžić spent time with former USL Championship members Fresno FC and St. Louis FC. In 2016, he was the first University of Nebraska-Omaha player to be drafted to MLS after playing under current Union Omaha head coach Jay Mims.
“It is great to have Emir returning,” Mims said. “Having a player with seven years of professional experience will really help our young team. Emir had some big goals for the club last year, and his versatility will be a huge asset to have this season.”
“I’m excited to be back in Omaha to continue building our winning culture,” Alihodžić said. “Can’t wait to play in front of the best crowd in League One again!”
Phonetic pronunciation of name: [EH-MEER AH-LEE-HOD-ZITCH]
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 170 lbs.
Date of birth: 9/2/1993
Hometown: Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The 2022 League One Championship defending campaign is set to begin on April 9 with a visit to Forward Madison FC. The home opener at Werner Park is set for April 23 vs. USL1 newcomer Central Valley Fuego FC. Season tickets and undated voucher packs for the 2022 season are currently available via UnionOmaha.com or the Werner Park Ticket Office by calling 402-738-5100.
ABOUT UNION OMAHA
Union Omaha, the 2021 USL League One Champion, is the only professional soccer team in the state of Nebraska. USL League One is a United States Soccer Federation-sanctioned professional men’s soccer league that occupies the third tier of the American soccer landscape, below USL Championship (tier two) and Major League Soccer (tier one). Union Omaha plays its home matches at Werner Park in Sarpy County, also home to the Omaha Storm Chasers of Minor League Baseball. The team is led by General Manager Peter Marlette in the front office and by Head Coach Jay Mims on the field.
