New England Revolution and Toronto FC Complete Trade for Veteran MLS Midfielders
New England Revolution and Toronto FC Complete Trade for Veteran MLS Midfielders
In a recent announcement, the New England Revolution and Toronto FC, both teams from the Eastern Conference, have completed a trade involving veteran MLS midfielders. Mark-Anthony Kaye will be joining the Revolution, while Latif Blessing, along with a 2023 international roster slot, will be heading to Toronto FC.
This marks New England's third acquisition during the ongoing Secondary Transfer Window. Previously, they signed midfielder Ian Harkes as a free agent from Dundee United in Scotland and secured forward Tomás Chancalay on loan from Racing Club in Argentina.
Mark-Anthony Kaye, a 28-year-old Canadian international, brings a wealth of experience to the New England Revolution. Throughout his MLS career, he has recorded 15 goals and 23 assists in 138 regular-season appearances. Kaye has previously played for LAFC, Colorado Rapids, and Toronto, and was named an MLS All-Star in 2019. He also played a significant role in helping LAFC secure the Supporters' Shield in the same year. Kaye participated in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further adding to his international experience.
Bruce Arena, the Revolution's sporting director and head coach, expressed his excitement about the addition of Mark-Anthony Kaye, praising his quality and the value he brings to the team's midfield. Arena also extended his gratitude to Latif Blessing for his contributions to the club and wished him the best with Toronto FC.
As part of the trade, Latif Blessing, a 26-year-old Ghanaian player, will join Toronto FC. Blessing has accumulated 17 goals and 25 assists in 185 regular-season games, primarily with LAFC. He joined New England earlier this year through a trade but will now continue his career in Toronto. Blessing has been successful in his MLS career, winning four trophies, including the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield with LAFC in 2022.
Toronto FC has been active in strengthening their squad and recently acquired midfielder Franco Ibarra on loan from Atlanta United.
Looking at the bigger picture, the New England Revolution currently hold the second position in the Eastern Conference standings as they strive to secure a spot in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. On the other hand, Toronto FC, led by interim head coach Terry Dunfield following Bob Bradley's departure, find themselves in 14th place, second to last, in the Eastern Conference.
Teams have until August 2 to make further moves during the Secondary Transfer Window, allowing for additional changes and adjustments to rosters during the summer.