Mark-Anthony Kaye, the experienced Canadian midfielder known for his time at Toronto FC, is set to sign with Sacramento Republic FC as the USL Championship approaches. This move, confirmed by Tom Bogert of The Athletic, brings a seasoned MLS veteran to Sacramento’s lineup, a club that benefited from assistant coach Danny Dichio’s leadership in recent years.
Kaye’s Journey Through MLS and International Soccer
At 31, Kaye completes a well-traveled MLS career by transferring to Sacramento after spending the 2025 campaign with the San Jose Earthquakes. Born in Toronto, he has represented Canada 42 times, playing a key role during the national team’s rise that culminated in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His career began at Louisville City FC, where his energetic box-to-box style drew MLS interest early on.
He then became a central figure for Los Angeles FC, contributing significantly to the team’s dominant midfield and helping secure the 2019 Supporters’ Shield. Subsequent spells included solid performances with the Colorado Rapids and a high-profile trade to Toronto FC in 2022, which brought him closer to home but coincided with a challenging period marked by underwhelming team results and difficulties integrating high-profile designated players Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi.
Challenges and Roles in Recent Clubs
After departing Toronto FC, Kaye served as a veteran presence for Bruce Arena at New England Revolution and then with San Jose Earthquakes last season. While his playing time has varied, his tactical flexibility and leadership qualities remained valued assets. Now, at Sacramento, Kaye faces the task of blending veteran leadership with ambitions of returning to the Canadian national setup.
Balancing Leadership With National Team Prospects
With Canada’s midfield talent pool growing younger and more competitive, stepping into the USL Championship may reduce Kaye’s chances of a national team recall under coach Jesse Marsch. However, strong performances in the USL have historically allowed players to reignite their careers and possibly return to MLS. Kaye’s experience and composure in high-pressure matches provide him with a platform to demonstrate his ongoing value.
For Mark-Anthony Kaye, this move represents more than just a change of club — it is a return to familiar surroundings and a strategic choice to prove his continued relevance in professional soccer, even if the route back to international play narrows outside the MLS spotlight.
“Mark has always been a player who brings energy and experience to the midfield, qualities that Sacramento will benefit from as we aim to compete at the highest level this season.” ?Danny Dichio, Sacramento Republic assistant coach
🇨🇦 Sources: Sacramento Republic has signed MLS veteran and former Canadian int'l midfielder Mark-Anthony Kaye.
Kaye, 31, was with San Jose Earthquakes last year. Made 42 caps for Canada.
Kaye launched his career with Louisville in USL before heading to MLS. pic.twitter.com/faC00f9p85
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) February 20, 2026
