After an outstanding start to the 2026 season, Minnesota United defender Anthony Markanich has been selected to the MLS All Star First XI. The Illinois native has played in all 15 league matches so far in the 2026 season and added two Open Cup appearances to tally a total of 17 appearances on the season. Since joining the Loons from St. Louis City in August 2024, the 26 year old as proven himself to be a wizard on the end of set pieces. Regularly getting himself open and unmarked in the box Markanich has a knack for scoring on headers.
That has all led up to the defender scoring four goals this season, two off the head and two from the foot. And while he has offensive prowess he is a hugely capable defender and was key in the Loons stout defensive effort during Michael Boxall's absence earlier this season. Markanich has had over 80 defensive contributions and 30 tackles this season all adding up to 7.40 Fotmob rating through the first half of the season.
The former Northern Illinois Huskie is the only MNUFC selected to the 2026 match and becomes the eighth Loons player to be named to the MLS All Star team. Francisco Calvo (2018), Darwin Quintero (2018), Romain Métanire (2019), Emanuel Reynoso (2021 & 2022), Dayne St. Clair (2023 & 2025) Robin Lod (2024), and Michael Boxall (2025) are the previous Loons named to the MLS All Star Game.
2026 MLS All Star First XI:
Goalkeeper: Brian Schwake (Nashville SC)
Defenders: Anthony Markanich (MNUFC), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), and Andy Najar (Nashville SC)
Midfielders: Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Zavier Gozo (Real Salt Lake), and Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC)
Forwards: Hugo Cuypers (Chicago Fire), Son Heung-Min (LAFC), and Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF)
