John McCarthy Bio
John Joseph McCarthy III (born July 4, 1992) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a goalkeeper for Major League Soccer club New York Red Bulls. Standing at 185 cm, McCarthy is recognized across Major League Soccer for his composure in goal, his sharp shot-stopping, and his ability to deliver in the most pressure-filled moments. Over the course of his career, he has earned a reputation as a dependable netminder whose performances have often decided championship outcomes.
McCarthy began his professional journey in the lower divisions of American soccer, rising through the USL Pro ranks before establishing himself in Major League Soccer. He has represented several clubs across the United States, and his crowning achievements include winning the MLS Cup with Los Angeles FC in 2022 and with LA Galaxy in 2024. His standout showing in the 2022 MLS Cup penalty shootout, where he was named Most Valuable Player, cemented his place among the league’s most respected goalkeepers.
Early Life and Background
John Joseph McCarthy III was born on July 4, 1992, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. Growing up in a city with a rich soccer culture, McCarthy developed an early fascination with the goalkeeper position, drawn to the unique blend of athleticism and decision-making the role demands. Philadelphia’s deep community connection to the sport provided a natural backdrop for his formative years, and the city would later become home to his first Major League Soccer club.
McCarthy attended La Salle University, where he played four years of college soccer between 2010 and 2013. During his time with the La Salle Explorers, he set numerous program records, including most games played with 74, most saves with 468, and most shutouts with 28. His collegiate excellence was recognized with Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team honors in 2011 and 2012, followed by an Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team selection in 2013.
While completing his college career, McCarthy also gained valuable summer experience with USL Premier Development League sides. He appeared for Ocean City Nor’easters in 2011 and 2012, and for Reading United AC in 2013. These developmental stings allowed him to refine his professional approach while still pursuing his degree.
Path to Professional Soccer
McCarthy’s transition from collegiate standout to professional goalkeeper began in February 2014, when he signed his first professional contract with USL Pro club Rochester Rhinos on February 27, 2014. The opportunity came after an impressive college tenure, and McCarthy quickly justified the club’s faith in him. He led the league with a 0.72 goals-against average and was recognized for his outstanding rookie campaign.
At the conclusion of the 2014 season, McCarthy was named the Rochester Rhinos’ Rookie of the Year, and he also earned USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year and USL PRO Rookie of the Year awards. These honors signaled his readiness for a higher level of competition and brought him to the attention of Major League Soccer clubs. His combination of shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and consistency between the posts made him an attractive prospect heading into the next phase of his career.
John McCarthy Career
Early Career (2014-2015)
McCarthy’s first professional season at Rochester Rhinos in 2014 established him as one of the top goalkeeping prospects in American soccer. His league-leading goals-against average and individual awards laid the foundation for his eventual move to Major League Soccer. By the end of that season, several top-flight clubs had taken notice of his development.
In 2015, McCarthy signed with his hometown club, Philadelphia Union. Originally signed as a third goalkeeper behind first-round draft pick Andre Blake and designated player Rais M’Bohli, McCarthy was elevated into a starting role after injuries and dips in form. He made his MLS debut on April 11, 2015, against New York City FC, earning his first top-flight win and the Union’s first victory of the 2015 season. He went on to start eight league matches that year, recording one shutout, and played a key role in Philadelphia’s 2015 U.S. Open Cup run, helping the team win four consecutive rounds, including two penalty shootouts, before falling in the final.
Philadelphia Union Era (2015-2018)
McCarthy’s time with Philadelphia Union was defined by perseverance and steady growth. After an encouraging debut season, he continued to develop his game, becoming a reliable option in goal for his hometown team. On July 6, 2017, he delivered one of the most memorable performances of his Union tenure, making five noteworthy saves in an away match against Sporting Kansas City that finished in a 1-1 draw, including a spectacular foot save on Latif Blessing in the 70th minute.
During the 2016 season, McCarthy was loaned to Philadelphia’s USL affiliate, Bethlehem Steel FC, where he made 11 starts and posted five shutouts during the club’s inaugural campaign. He returned to the Union and continued to contribute, but the conclusion of the 2018 season marked the end of his contract with his hometown team, opening the door for the next chapter of his career.
Tampa Bay Rowdies Era (2019)
On January 31, 2019, McCarthy signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the USL Championship. During his single season with the club, he made 26 appearances and recorded 10 clean sheets, demonstrating the consistency and form that had made him one of the most respected goalkeepers outside of Major League Soccer. His strong campaign helped set the stage for a return to the top flight.
Inter Miami Era (2020-2021)
In December 2019, McCarthy joined Inter Miami CF ahead of the club’s inaugural 2020 MLS season. He made his debut for Miami on October 7, in a 2-1 victory over New York Red Bulls. Although opportunities were limited during the expansion side’s formative years, McCarthy remained a professional presence in the squad throughout the 2020 and 2021 campaigns. Following the 2021 season, Inter Miami declined his contract option, making him a free agent.
Los Angeles FC Era (2022-2023)
On January 21, 2022, McCarthy joined Los Angeles FC for the 2022 season, with an option for 2023. He served as a backup goalkeeper for much of his time with the club, but his defining moment arrived in the most dramatic of circumstances. During the MLS Cup 2022 final against the Philadelphia Union, starting goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau was shown a red card in the 117th minute, forcing McCarthy into the match. He went on to make two crucial saves during the subsequent penalty shootout, securing LAFC’s maiden MLS Cup title. His heroic entry off the bench earned him the MLS Cup Most Valuable Player award.
LA Galaxy Era (2024-2025)
On January 5, 2024, McCarthy was transferred to LA Galaxy, LAFC’s cross-city rivals. The move provided him with a fresh opportunity to compete for a starting role, and he ended the 2024 season on a high note, capturing another MLS Cup title after the Galaxy defeated the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup 2024 final. His second league championship in three years reinforced his reputation as a big-game goalkeeper.
Driving Style and Strengths
McCarthy is widely regarded as a confident and composed goalkeeper whose shot-stopping ability shines brightest in high-leverage moments. His strengths include sharp reflexes, sound positioning, and a strong command of his penalty area. He has shown a particular comfort level in penalty shootouts, having made decisive saves in both the 2015 U.S. Open Cup and the 2022 MLS Cup final.
Notable Events and Milestones
McCarthy’s most iconic moment came in the MLS Cup 2022 final, when he entered the match as a substitute in extra time and converted two saves in the penalty shootout to deliver Los Angeles FC’s first-ever MLS title, earning the MLS Cup MVP award in the process. Two years later, he added a second championship ring with LA Galaxy after defeating the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup 2024 final.
John McCarthy Career Wins
John McCarthy has built a career highlighted by major championship success, with two Major League Soccer titles to his name. His trophy collection includes the 2022 MLS Cup with Los Angeles FC and the 2024 MLS Cup with LA Galaxy. Across the USL and MLS, he has consistently delivered clean sheets, postseason performances, and individual recognition, including USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year and USL PRO Rookie of the Year in 2014.
MLS Cup Highlights
McCarthy’s most celebrated MLS Cup moment came in 2022, when he was forced into action late in extra time after Maxime Crépeau’s red card and made two saves in the ensuing penalty shootout to defeat the Philadelphia Union. His performance was rewarded with the MLS Cup MVP honor, and he added a second MLS Cup title in 2024 with LA Galaxy after a victory over the New York Red Bulls.
Other Wins and Performances
Beyond his MLS Cup success, McCarthy has earned multiple USL PRO individual honors and contributed to deep U.S. Open Cup runs, including the 2015 Open Cup final appearance with the Philadelphia Union, during which he won four rounds that featured two penalty shootout victories.
John McCarthy Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Specific details about John McCarthy’s parents and extended family are not publicly documented in available sources. The goalkeeper was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and grew up immersed in a city with deep ties to American soccer culture.
Personal Life
John McCarthy was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Public information about his spouse, children, and personal relationships is not available in verified sources.
2025 Season Performance
Heading into the 2025 Major League Soccer season, John McCarthy continues his career with the New York Red Bulls after departing LA Galaxy. The move marks a return to the Eastern Conference for the veteran goalkeeper, who brings two MLS Cup titles and a 2022 MLS Cup MVP award to a Red Bulls side looking to solidify its place among the league’s elite.
McCarthy’s experience in high-pressure matches, particularly his two penalty-shootout heroics in championship finals, is expected to play a central role for New York Red Bulls as the club navigates a competitive 2025 campaign. His track record of delivering in decisive moments, combined with his consistent shot-stopping, provides the Red Bulls with a steady and battle-tested presence in goal.
With the 2025 season underway, McCarthy’s combination of veteran leadership, postseason pedigree, and proven big-game temperament positions him as a key figure in New York’s pursuit of a deep playoff run and, potentially, the club’s first MLS Cup title since 2008.