Republic FC Adds Striker Forster Ajago to Strengthen 2026 Attack
Sacramento Republic FC continues to reshape its roster ahead of the 2026 season, announcing the signing of Ghanaian striker Forster Ajago who played last season on loan to Lexington SC from MLS side Real Salt Lake.
A Forward Designed for Collins’ System
Throughout the early offseason, Head Coach Neill Collins has emphasized the need for more goals—a clear priority after a year where Sacramento often created chances but lacked consistent finishing. In Ajago, Collins sees a young, physical striker capable of changing that dynamic.
“Adding to our attack has been a top priority and Forster is exactly the type of player that is going to help us score more goals in 2026,” Collins said. “He is a young, physical player who can be clinical in front of goal and we look forward to welcoming him to Sacramento.”
At 6’2”, Ajago brings size and strength to the No. 9 role, but his movement and confidence in the box have been key to his quick rise through both MLS and the USL Championship.
Ajago expressed the same ambition upon signing.
“I’m incredibly excited and honored to join Sacramento Republic and get to work with this talented group. I can’t wait to get on the pitch, score goals and give everything I have for the Indomitable City as we fight for another Championship.”
A Productive 2025 Across MLS and the USL Championship
Ajago joins Sacramento after a busy and impactful 2025 season split between Real Salt Lake and Lexington SC. He opened the year in MLS, where he made eight appearances and scored twice—including RSL’s first goal of the league campaign. He also featured for Real Monarchs in MLS NEXT Pro before moving on loan to Lexington SC, one of the USL Championship’s newest clubs.
In Kentucky, Ajago quickly became the focal point of the attack. Across 22 league and USL Cup appearances, he led Lexington with seven goals and 18 shots on target, consistently providing a scoring threat for a first-year squad finding its footing.
His ability to adjust to a new environment and still produce made him one of the more intriguing young forwards available this offseason—exactly the type of profile Collins and Republic FC have targeted.
Early Professional Experience and Rapid Growth
Ajago made his professional debut in 2024 with Nashville SC, appearing in 18 MLS matches and scoring his first career goal. He gained valuable minutes in additional competitions as well, including the Leagues Cup and Concacaf Champions Cup, where he netted a brace in the First Round. A productive loan spell with Huntsville SC in MLS NEXT Pro that same year showcased his upside even further, with 10 goal contributions in 13 appearances.
Across each stop, Ajago has shown a pattern of growth: adapting quickly, embracing responsibility, and emerging as a reliable finisher.
What His Signing Means for Sacramento
Ajago’s arrival is another strong signal of how Collins intends to rebuild the attack heading into 2026—bigger, faster, more direct, and more efficient. After a season where Sacramento often dominated phases of play but struggled to convert, adding a striker with Ajago’s physical presence and scoring instincts fills a clear need.
More moves are likely as the roster takes shape, but this signing checks one of the most important boxes. With Ajago in the fold, Republic FC brings in a forward whose best years are still ahead of him—and whose profile fits the club’s ambitions for 2026 and beyond.
