New York Red Bulls have announced that defender John Tolkin has been given a new contract that will see the homegrown player staying with the club through 2027 and potentially 2028. The 21 year-old has already spent five seasons with New York, making his way through the academy system, Red Bulls II and now becoming an important part of the MLS first team.
“Being a homegrown, he has worked his way through our academy and NYRB II and has become an important member of our first team,” said Head of Sport Jochen Schneider. “He has proven to be one of the top young players in his position globally, despite missing preseason. He has been fighting back and still has a lot of potential to grow with us.”
Tolkin, a Chatham Borough New Jersey native, has played his entire professional career with the Red Bulls, making over 100 appearances with the club dating back to 2021. Over that time he has made himself almost essential to the starting line-up over the tenure of several managers, including Gerhard Struber and now Sandro Schwarz.
Tolkin has also caught the eye of US Men’s National Team head coach Gregg Berhalter, making appearances for the USMNT U17, U23 and first team. He is expected to be one of the selections for the US Olympic team alongside teammate Daniel Edelman.
“John has been a great person to get to know over the last couple of months and I’m really happy to keep him with the club,” said head coach Sandro Schwarz. “He has been a big member of this club for the last few years and has been very important for the club on and off the field.”
Tolkin was rumored to be moving away from MLS last off-season but a move to Europe never materialized. Red Bulls have quickly pounced on the opportunity to not just re-sign the player but also give themselves stability to grow the defensive structure of the team, knowing that the leftback position will not be a concern.
Red Bulls are currently resting following a three-game week and will return to play on Wednesday the 29th against Charlotte FC at Red Bull Arena.
photo by Matt Kremkau