Anthony Markanich – The Midfielder Making Noise in MLS

If you follow the MLS, you’ve probably seen the name Anthony Markanich popping up in match reports and fan chats. The 24‑year‑old American midfielder has turned his solid college record into a real chance to shape games for the Chicago Fire. Let’s break down how he got here, what makes him tick on the pitch, and why he could become a key player to follow.

From College Hero to Pro Prospect

Markanich spent his college years at the University of Wisconsin‑Milwaukee, where he posted 14 goals and 12 assists in 71 appearances. Those numbers earned him a spot on the All‑Horizon League team and caught the eye of MLS scouts. In the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, Chicago Fire selected him in the second round, betting on his work ethic and tactical sense.

After a brief stint with the Fire’s affiliate in the USL Championship, he earned his first senior squad minutes in 2023. The transition wasn’t smooth—rookie mistakes are expected—but his willingness to learn and adapt quickly impressed head coach Ezra Hendrickson.

Playing Style and What Sets Him Apart

Markanich is a box‑to‑box midfielder who thrives on pressing high and covering ground. He’s not the flashiest dribbler, but his passing accuracy (around 84% last season) and ability to find space between the lines make him a reliable link between defense and attack. He often drops deep to help the back line, then launches forward with a quick one‑two.

One of his standout traits is his set‑piece delivery. In several games he’s taken corners and free‑kicks, providing dangerous balls into the box that have led to crucial goals. Coaches value his versatility—he can slot into a defensive midfield role or push up as an attacking midfielder when the team needs a spark.

Fans also notice his stamina. Heat‑map data shows he averages over 10 km per match, covering more ground than many starters. That energy helps Chicago maintain pressure for the full 90 minutes, especially in tight games where a single tackle can change momentum.

Off the ball, Markanich displays strong leadership for a player his age. He often shouts instructions, organizes the midfield press, and nudges younger teammates toward better positioning. That vocal presence has earned respect in the locker room and gives the Fire a more cohesive unit.

Statistically, his contributions go beyond goals and assists. In the 2023 season he recorded 2.3 tackles per game, 1.5 interceptions, and a passing range that stretches up to 30 meters when needed. Those numbers underline his growing influence in both defensive duties and attacking buildup.

Looking ahead, the next few seasons will be crucial. If he can keep improving his decision‑making in the final third and stay injury‑free, he could become a regular starter and maybe attract attention from the USMNT. The national team has been scouting MLS talent more aggressively, and a versatile midfielder like Markanich fits the modern game’s demands.

For Chicago Fire fans, keeping an eye on his development is easy—watch for his involvement in transition play, his set‑piece runs, and how often he steps up in crunch moments. Whether he netted a rare goal or set up a teammate, his impact often shows up in the flow of the game rather than the headline stats.

In short, Anthony Markanich is more than a draft pick; he’s a hardworking midfielder carving out a place in a competitive league. His blend of stamina, passing skill, and tactical awareness gives the Chicago Fire a valuable piece of the puzzle, and it’s only the beginning of what could be a solid MLS career.