USMNT defender McKenzie completes transfer to Toulouse

Mark McKenzie has joined Ligue 1 side Toulouse on a transfer from Genk, the clubs announced on Friday.

McKenzie, 25, spent four seasons in Belgium with Genk, making 128 appearances.

The U.S. men’s national team defender told his new club’s website that he was ready to make the next step in his career.

“I am 25 years old, I have been playing in Belgium for several seasons now and I simply wanted to move up a level in my career,” the defender said.

“I think it was the right time. Above all, I wanted to make the right choice by joining a team with a real playing identity, a project that fits with my ambitions and a way of playing that matches my profile.”

The defender had been recently linked with a move to Germany, but will instead continue his career in the French top flight.

McKenzie will become the first American to ever play for Toulouse, which has finished mid-table in Ligue 1 the past two seasons.

“It’s always special to be the first to do something, no matter what it is,” he said. “It’s an honor to represent the United States so far. It adds a little pressure, yes, but I have to raise my own standards, lead the way and maybe inspire some in America.”

McKenzie has earned 13 caps for the USMNT. He was on the team’s roster for this summer’s Copa América but did not make an appearance at the tournament.

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