Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel have been forced to defend their signing of USMNT international John Tolkin following criticism of his social media activity. The 22-year-old wing-back — a club-record transfer from Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls — has faced criticism for his activity online relating to a variety of topics including gender identity and conspiracies around the COVID pandemic.

Defender John Tolkin has transferred to Holstein Kiel of the German Bundesliga from Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls.

Tolkin is referred to as "JMi" almost exclusively by teammates, friends and family (a reference to his middle name Michael). He revealed in 2023 that the nickname was given to him by his uncle when he was young and that he hardly answers to "John".

Like Alberta clippers scudding across the Great Plains, the winter transactions just keep rolling in across MLS.

John Tolkin’s move to Holstein Kiel in Germany isn’t just another transfer in the world of soccer, it’s a bold gamble, a game-changer in the life of a 22-year-old with the talent and potential to shine on bigger stages. This move is going to change everything for the left-back from the New York Red Bulls.

Domestic league action is back this weekend with Arsenal vs. Aston Villa, Juventus vs. Milan and Manchester United vs. Brighton and Hove Albion all notable on top of the U.S. men's national team taking on Venezuela.

John Tolkin has joined Holstein Kiel in a permanent transfer from the New York Red Bulls for an undisclosed fee, both clubs announced Thursday. Tolkin left

Mauricio Pochettino has been quick to praise the quality of American players but says he wants to inject some Argentine spirit and patriotism into his squad.

USA national team coach Mauricio Pochettino has been quick to praise the quality of American players but says he wants to inject some Argentine spirit and patriotism into his squad.

Follow the latest January transfer window news, plus reaction to Erling Haaland’s new NINE-year contract at the Premier League champions

Having those rights doesn't mean Neymar, currently with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, is a lock for Chicago, as was the case late last season when Germany star Marco Reus spurned Charlotte FC to join the eventual MLS Cup winners LA Galaxy.