Red Bulls ecstatic to keep John Tolkin for a few more years

New York Red Bulls, Featured, Professional, Soccer

May 23, 2024

The New York Red Bulls keep their star left back for a few more years after signing John “JMi” Tolkin to a new MLS contract. The homegrown Chatham, NJ native stays with New York with a new four-year deal through 2027 with an option for 2028.

He's one of our own 🤝 #RedRunsDeep pic.twitter.com/XuIrB7DTI3

— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) May 23, 2024

Tolkin joined the club as an academy player until he was called up to the senior team in 2019 when he was just 17 years old. In his five-year career with New York, JMi has made 93 appearances in the MLS with 90 starts (including 11 in 2024).

“We are thrilled to sign John [Tolkin] to a new contract – being a homegrown player, he has worked his way through our Academy and NYRB II and has become an important member of our First Team and the club playing 112 official matches, while only being 21 years old,” Head of Sport Jochen Schneider said. “He has proven to be one of the top young players at his position globally and despite missing preseason, he has been fighting back and still has a lot of potential to grow with us. We are very proud to have John with us.”

Tolkin recorded six goals and 11 assists in the MLS while adding four more assists across all competitions. Last season, the defender’s ten assists were the most by a homegrown player across all competitions and the most by a defender in a single season. His success in 2023 earned him a call-up to the MLS All-Star match and he placed number six on the 2023 MLS 22 Under 22.

“John has been a great person to get to know over the last couple months and I’m really happy to keep him with the club,” Head coach Sandro Schwarz said. “He has been a big member of this club for the last few years and has been very important for the club on the field and off.”

Tolkin earned the attention of the United States Men’s National Team during the offseason. He made his debut representing his country in January, playing in a friendly against Colombia. JMi is also expected to join the U.S. Olympic team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, though no official list has been announced yet.