Toronto FC: Reputation of Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty continues to grow

Toronto FC’s Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty has had an excellent start to the 2022 regular season, by being named to the first MLS Team of the Week.

As we recently wrote, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty is receiving considerable interest from several big name clubs around Europe, including Liverpool and Arsenal. Named by The Guardian as one of the best young talents in world football, it is tough to imagine a scenario where Toronto FC keeps hold of him long-term.

Marshall-Rutty received another positive boost on Monday, as he was named to the inaugural 2022 MLS Team of the Week. As per TFC’s official website, he completed 72 passes, made five tackles and had a team-high three interceptions.

The Brampton, Ontario native certainly had a good performance, only made more impressive by the fact it was his official league debut in a new position. After previously playing as a winger, he moved to right fullback during preseason and adapted positively to the change.

Marshall-Rutty is an energetic player who genuinely enjoys running as a major aspect of his game. As such, it was no surprise to see him covering ground up and down the right wing throughout the season-opener in Texas.

The 17-year-old had previously said his main challenge was adjusting to the defensive side of the game, but on the basis of Saturday he’s going to be just fine. His only glaring error came in the build up to an FC Dallas goal on the half-hour mark, although it was ultimately called offside following a video review.

Head coach and sporting director Bob Bradley was succinct in his praise for Marshall-Rutty. As per John Molinaro of TFC Republic, Bradley said:

"“Jahkeele, first game playing at right back, that was really quite good.”"

As recently reported by TSN‘s Matthew Scianitti, Marshall-Rutty’s agent advised a club in Europe was ready to make an offer. Apparently the only reason it hadn’t come to fruition, was because Bradley wanted to work closely with the teenager this season.

Based on Saturday’s performance, the influence of Bradley is evident and Toronto FC stands to benefit. They should make the most of this though, especially as Marshall-Rutty’s reputation only continues to grow both at home and — more crucially — abroad.

What was your opinion of Marshall-Rutty’s performance in Dallas? Are you confident he will be a mainstay for Toronto FC this season? Let us know in the comments section below.