Anthony Markanich

  • Years with club: 2024–present
  • Position: Left-back / Defender

Anthony Markanich was acquired by Minnesota United via a trade with St. Louis City SC in August 2024, arriving midway through the MLS season. A versatile left-footed defender, Markanich was initially drafted by the Colorado Rapids in 2022 and had a successful collegiate career at Northern Illinois University. Since joining the Loons, he has made an immediate and significant impact, impressing with his high work rate, defensive intensity, and unexpected goal-scoring threat from the full-back position. His strong performances quickly earned him a contract extension through the 2028 season.

Key stats:

  • MLS regular season appearances: 31 (As of late 2025)
  • Goals: 9 (For MNUFC, as of late 2025)
  • Trade: Acquired from St. Louis City SC in exchange for General Allocation Money (GAM).

Memorable moments:

  • Instant goal threat: Despite being a defender, Markanich quickly became a surprise offensive weapon for the Loons, scoring multiple important goals from set pieces shortly after his arrival and throughout the 2025 season.
  • Contract extension: In September 2025, the club signed him to a new long-term deal through 2028, with an option for 2029, a move that affirmed his importance to the team’s plans for the future.

Where are they now?:

  • Anthony Markanich is currently an active member of the Minnesota United FC first-team roster.
  • He is under contract with the club through the 2028 season.