Americans Abroad Weekend Preview: McKenzie, Fossey, and more

07/24/2024 01:00 PM

American defender Mark McKenzie remains a vital member of the Genk squad heading into the 2024-25 season and manager Thorsten Fink will hope that McKenzie can lead the way to silverware.

McKenzie and Genk open their competitive schedule on Sunday against Standard Liege. The 25-year-old is coming off his most productive season yet in Belgium, making 44 combined appearances for the club. Despite no trophies, McKenzie took another key step forward in his development abroad and overall has amassed over 120 appearances for Genk since his arrival from the Philadelphia Union.

Although McKenzie began the summer linked with a potential move away, it looks likely that he will stay at Genk for the time being.

Fellow 25-year-old Marlon Fossey will also seek a strong start to the season as he heads into his third campaign with Standard Liege. The former Fulham academy player scored one goal and added two assists in 32 appearances for Liege last season, continuing his productive run in Belgium.

Fossey is still seeking his first trophy in Europe, which could very well come this season.

In Europe, Rokas Pukstas and Hajduk Split begin Conference League Qualifying.

In North America, Cade Cowell faces his old club San Jose Earthquakes in Leagues Cup action.

Here is a closer look at this weekend’s Americans Abroad:

Europe

UEFA Conference League Qualifying

Rokas Pukstas and Hajduk Split host HB Torshavn on Thursday.

Belgium

Pro League

Mark McKenzie and Genk host Marlon Fossey and Standard Liege on Sunday.

Scotland

League Cup

Dante Polvara is OUT (Injury) for Aberdeen.

Norway

Eliteserien

Sam Rogers and Hamkam host Fredrikstad on Sunday.

Denmark

Superliagen

Jonathan Amon and Lyngby visit Sonderjyske on Friday.

Christian Cappis and Brondby host Vejle on Monday.

International

Leagues Cup

Cade Cowell and Chivas face San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday.

Brandon Vazquez and Monterrey are off until July 30.

Frankie Amaya and Toluca are off until August 1.

Alex Zendejas is OUT (Injury) for Club America.