M. Boxall: Minnesota United’s $1.5M Wall—Is He the Richest Defender Who Blocks Goals and Bad Jokes?
Let’s talk about Michael Boxall, the rock at the heart of Minnesota United FC’s defense, wearing that familiar #15. He’s not just a basic, “clear it and forget it” defender—Boxall’s influence stretches far beyond the obvious stuff. He’s turned into a key figure for the Loons, and coaches trust him for his reliability and leadership in Major League Soccer. Since 2017, Boxall’s been the steady hand Minnesota needs, especially when the going gets tough.
Boxall brings international experience from New Zealand, which just adds another layer to his game. You’re watching a guy who logs big minutes, sure, but he also sets the tone with his work rate and his cool-as-ice presence under pressure.
Fans and teammates see his steady contributions all the time—he’s always in the right spot, clearing danger, making interceptions, and keeping the back line locked in.
If you want to dig into his numbers, check out this table showing his recent stats:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Tackles | Clearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 32 | 1 | 1 | 54 | 120 |
| 2025 | 21 | 1 | 1 | 36 | 86 |
For even more on Boxall, head to his official Minnesota United FC profile or look him up on Transfermarkt.
Contents
Profile of M. Boxall
Boxall brings leadership and depth every time he steps onto the field for Minnesota United FC. He’s one of the most experienced footballers in the squad, and his day-to-day role at the club really stands out.
Personal Background
Michael Joseph Boxall was born on August 18, 1988, in Auckland, New Zealand. He started out at Mount Albert Grammar School, which has a reputation for turning out some solid Kiwi footballers.
Growing up, Boxall played for Central United and Three Kings United—both well-respected in the New Zealand Football Championship. He’s 1.88 meters tall and brings both New Zealand and Samoan heritage to the pitch.
His brother Nikko Boxall also plays professionally, so football definitely runs in the family. For the All Whites, Michael’s been a regular—he’s played in big tournaments like the FIFA Confederations Cup.
Coaches call him back time and again because he’s reliable and brings character to the squad. He’s worked hard for everything, and you can tell he takes pride in his roots. That makes him a role model for young players in both New Zealand and Samoa.
Playing Position and Style
You’ll usually find Boxall as a central defender, locking things down at the back and keeping everyone organized. He’s right-footed and covers a lot of ground, always aware, and he doesn’t shy away from the physical side.
His tackles are clean, and his positioning keeps the team out of trouble—coaches love that. Boxall’s style is pretty direct. He keeps his passing simple and effective, uses his height to win those aerial duels, and never jumps into reckless challenges.
He reads the game well and cuts out danger before it turns into a problem.
Key Defensive Stats (Recent Seasons):
| Season | Games Played | Minutes | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 33 | 2,950 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| 2024 | 32 | 2,880 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
You can see he’s not relying on pure speed—his experience and game sense do the talking.
Minnesota United FC Squad Role
Since July 2017, Boxall has been a mainstay in the Minnesota United FC backline. He wears #15 and usually starts at center-back, leading both on the field and in the locker room.
You’ll notice his presence in big moments, especially when the pressure’s on or the opposition is tough. Off the field, Boxall gets involved with local groups like ACES and gives back as a mentor.
Younger defenders often go to him for advice on how to handle the demands of pro soccer. He’s under contract until December 2025, with an option for another year.
Boxall’s reliability, his voice in the dressing room, and his steady performances make him a favorite of fans and staff. Want more? Check out his Minnesota United FC player page.
Minnesota United FC Career
Boxall’s time with Minnesota United FC has really been about durability and impact. As #15, he’s anchored the defense from the very start—through playoff runs and tough stretches, he’s been the guy you count on.
Inaugural Season and Leadership
Boxall came in ahead of Minnesota United’s first MLS season in 2017. Right away, he brought the poise and leadership you’d hope for from a seasoned international.
When the team was finding its feet, Boxall helped steady a young squad. He led in ways you don’t always see in the stat sheet.
He wore the captain’s armband at times and always kept the communication lines open with teammates and staff. At Allianz Field, you could see him organize the backline, working closely with guys like Dayne St. Clair.
Boxall’s international experience mattered, but his mentorship really stood out. He worked with younger players like Miguel Ibarra, both on and off the pitch.
He also made an impact in the community, partnering with local charities and helping set the tone for the club’s culture.
Performance Highlights and Records
Boxall owns the record for most appearances in club history. He barely misses a match, even when the schedule gets packed.
Let’s check out some recent stats:
| Season | Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists | Clearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 33 | 2,870 | 1 | 1 | 160 |
| 2022 | 34 | 3,060 | 1 | 0 | 172 |
| 2023 | 32 | 2,880 | 0 | 1 | 157 |
| 2024 | 35 | 3,150 | 2 | 1 | 180 |
His defensive steadiness has helped Minnesota United FC stay competitive year after year. On set pieces, Boxall chips in with goals, using his size and timing.
You just don’t see many defenders this consistent, no matter who the Loons are playing—be it Houston Dynamo, Austin FC, or Sporting KC.
Key Matches and Milestones
Boxall’s had plenty of big moments with the Loons. Remember the first match at Allianz Field? He played the full 90, setting the standard for home games with that “Wonderwall” finish.
He’s gone up against rivals like Houston Dynamo FC and Sporting Kansas City, often shutting down their top attackers. When things get frantic, Boxall’s calm under pressure helps steady the ship.
He hit 200 appearances for Minnesota United, which is pretty rare in MLS. Every big moment—whether it’s a last-ditch tackle or a crucial header from a corner—adds to his legacy.
When injuries hit, Boxall steps up and adapts, working with whoever’s next to him, like Dayne St. Clair and others.
Role in Playoffs
Boxall’s played huge roles in Minnesota United’s playoff runs. When the games get tense and mistakes are costly, he’s the guy you want at the back.
In 2020, he helped lead the Loons to their deepest MLS postseason run ever, anchoring a defense that gave up very little. His play in those big games was all about smart positioning and quick decisions.
Against teams like Sporting Kansas City and Austin FC, Boxall took on the top attacking threats, using his experience and timing. He’s vocal, keeps everyone organized, and just doesn’t get rattled.
Minnesota United FC has leaned on Boxall in these moments, trusting his leadership to guide the team through the toughest tests. His calm and competitive edge have made him one of the most trusted voices in that locker room.
International Career with New Zealand
Michael Boxall’s international career is all about consistency and leadership. He’s stepped up for New Zealand’s senior team and the U23s, playing in tournaments like the FIFA Confederations Cup and the Olympics.
New Zealand National Team Contributions
You’ll often see Boxall anchoring the backline for the All Whites. He made his senior debut in 2011 and quickly became a regular.
Younger players look up to him for his leadership and physicality, especially in high-stakes matches. Every time he puts on the national kit, he gives everything—hard tackles, big aerial wins, and a relentless work ethic.
Here’s a quick look at Boxall’s international numbers with New Zealand:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Senior Debut Year | 2011 |
| Appearances (Caps) | 50+ |
| Goals Scored | 1+ |
| Position | Defender |
He’s a dependable pick for national team coaches, year after year.
Major Tournaments and Qualifiers
Boxall has played in some of the biggest games for New Zealand. One highlight was the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, where he faced off against top teams from around the world.
His experience in tournament pressure has helped him in World Cup qualifiers and big fixtures. During those qualifiers, he’s matched up against tough opponents from Asia and Oceania.
Coaches have included him in OFC Nations Cups and friendlies, showing their trust in his defensive abilities in any situation.
Key matches and tournaments include:
- 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup: played against Russia, Mexico, and Portugal
- Regular appearances in FIFA World Cup qualifiers
- Consistent selection for important playoff matches
New Zealand U23 and Olympic Participation
Alright, folks, let’s talk about one of Michael Boxall’s latest milestones. He got the nod as an overage player for the New Zealand U23 men’s national team at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
As one of just three allowed overage players, Boxall stepped in as a veteran leader for a squad that didn’t have much senior experience.
The Olympics handed Boxall a brand new stage late in his career. You could really see how leadership from a guy like him changes the outlook for a young team.
He brought order and stability to the back line, guiding the U23s as they handled the pressure of facing the world’s best.
By jumping into the Olympic fray, Boxall not only built on his own legacy but also gave the next wave of New Zealand footballers a boost during a huge international moment.
MLS All-Star Honors and League Impact
Let’s get into what Boxall’s done in Major League Soccer. His defensive work for Minnesota United FC has turned heads across the league, and for good reason.
Boxall’s on-field performances have earned him major league honors, and his reputation as a top defender just keeps growing.
2025 MLS All-Star Selection
You saw it—Michael Boxall finally landed a spot on the 2025 MLS All-Star roster. That’s a huge moment for a guy who’s been grinding in this league for over a decade.
He earned his All-Star spot through a mix of fan, media, and player voting. That says a lot about how much people respect his game and leadership.
Boxall will represent the Loons at Q2 Stadium in Austin on July 23. He’ll be out there with teammate Dayne St. Clair, both anchoring one of the league’s best defensive lines this season.
For Boxall, this All-Star nod means a lot—it’s his first after all these years of consistent, tough play.
He’ll line up alongside big names like Jordi Alba and Diego Luna. The All-Star Game brings together stars from LAFC, Columbus Crew, Nashville SC, and more.
You can catch all the action on the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV or check out details on mlssoccer.com. Want more on Boxall’s All-Star moment? Take a look at the Twin Cities Pioneer Press coverage.
Key Stats for 2025 Season:
| Matches Played | Minutes | Clearances | Interceptions | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 1,980 | 85 | 42 | 2 |
Team of the Matchday Honors
Boxall’s impact doesn’t stop at All-Star. Throughout the 2025 MLS season, he’s grabbed multiple Team of the Matchday honors.
These weekly awards shine a light on the league’s best performances in each round.
Defenders who make Team of the Matchday usually rack up clean sheets, key tackles, aerial wins, and smart passes out of the back. Boxall regularly faces top strikers from clubs like Philadelphia Union, Portland Timbers, and Real Salt Lake.
His defensive efforts have made a real difference against some high-powered attacks.
Earning these honors shows that coaches and league experts trust his defending, communication, and experience. That puts him in the same conversation as guys like Miles Robinson and Andy Najar—some of the league’s very best.
Influence in Major League Soccer
You can see Michael Boxall’s influence in his longevity and steady leadership. Since he joined Minnesota United, he’s anchored the back line, mentored teammates, and raised defensive standards for the whole club.
Boxall’s experience helps young talents like Dayne St. Clair, keeping Minnesota’s defense among the league’s toughest. His leadership stretches beyond his own team, too—defenders like Yohei Takaoka (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) and Brad Stuver (Austin) have taken notice.
You’ll hear his name pop up in league discussions, whether it’s Team of the Matchday debates or All-Star voting. Over the years, he’s rarely missed a match and has built a rep for shutting down top attackers like Evander (Portland Timbers) or Philip Zinckernagel (Chicago Fire FC).
If you follow the league on mlssoccer.com or catch the MLS Countdown show, Boxall’s consistency and professionalism really stand out. He’s become one of MLS’s most respected defenders—no question about it.
Previous Clubs and Early Professional Career
Before his Minnesota United days, Boxall played for clubs across North America, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Each stop helped shape him into the defender he is today.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Period
Let’s go back to where it started in MLS. Vancouver Whitecaps FC picked Boxall in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft, giving him his first shot at top-level soccer in North America.
Boxall made his MLS debut with the Whitecaps, racking up over 20 appearances in all competitions. He mostly played as a center back, sometimes starting and sometimes coming off the bench.
That experience put him up against tough North American attackers and forced him to adapt to the league’s speed and athleticism.
His time with Vancouver drilled in the basics of professional defending and set the stage for his future reliability.
Boxall’s MLS Debut Year (2011):
| Club | Year | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Whitecaps | 2011 | 21 | 0 |
Stints with Auckland and Central United
Before MLS, Boxall developed his game at home in New Zealand. He suited up for Auckland City FC and Central United FC, and also spent time with Auckland FC.
These early years gave him the chance to build match fitness, try out different defensive roles, and really find his style as a center back.
At Auckland City, Boxall played in New Zealand’s top league, taking part in big matches. His time at Central United, a club known for developing local talent, helped him sharpen his technical skills.
Each club played a part in his steady rise, giving him valuable experience with different defensive setups.
For young defenders, those years in Auckland’s top teams are key for learning positioning, communication, and one-on-one defending. Boxall’s growth during this stretch set him on the path to become a reliable choice for bigger clubs.
Experience in the Australian and South African Leagues
Boxall’s adaptability got tested even further when he moved to the Australian A-League and then the South African Premier Division.
He signed with Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand’s representative in the Australian competition, and became a regular on the back line.
After Australia, Boxall headed to SuperSport United in South Africa. He faced new attacking threats in the South African Premier Division and played in major cup competitions like the Nedbank Cup.
Playing in South Africa brought new tactical challenges and exposed him to different football cultures. It demanded more focus and athletic ability.
Both stints proved he could learn fast and perform in tough environments. These experiences broadened his skills, making him a seasoned, well-rounded defender before he even returned to MLS and joined Minnesota United FC.
Off-Field Endeavors and Community Engagement
Michael Boxall isn’t just a reliable defender—his dedication stretches into the community and beyond.
You’ll find him working with area youth, spending time with family, and jumping into projects off the pitch.
Community Outreach and ACES
Boxall stands out for giving back to the local community. He’s especially active with Athletes Committed to Educating Students (ACES).
The ACES program links students up with pro athlete role models, supporting education and life skills.
You might see Boxall volunteering at ACES events or running clinics for young fans. When people ask him about his impact, he often mentions moments with kids—like naming ACES as his “Man of the Match” charity recipient.
That shows his commitment to lifting up others and using sports to make a difference.
Table: Michael Boxall & Community Involvement
| Organization | Activities | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| ACES (Athletes Committed to Educating Students) | Youth mentoring, educational clinics | Education, youth empowerment |
| Local Non-Profits | Event participation, fundraising | Community support |
Family Life and Traditions
Boxall talks a lot about family as his foundation. He and his wife, Libby Boxall, have two kids—Maxwell Milou and Beau Beckham.
You’ll hear stories about his children joining him on the pitch and celebrating milestones together.
Their daily life blends New Zealand roots with new routines in Minnesota. From sharing classic dishes at home to getting outside, those family traditions help him balance the grind of pro soccer.
He says time with family recharges him for matches and keeps his career in perspective. Honestly, you get the sense that family memories mean just as much to him as stats or trophies.
Entrepreneurship and Wellness Initiatives
Alright, let’s step outside the stadium for a second. Boxall doesn’t just play the game—he’s got a real passion for entrepreneurship, especially when it comes to health and wellness.
He’s talked a lot about the benefits of CBD products. Sometimes, he credits them for helping with recovery and just handling the grind of being a top-level athlete.
You’ll catch him digging into new ideas for healthy living, always tossing out tips to his teammates. Boxall has explored everything from MESA—a high-quality wellness supplement venture—to leading community workshops focused on physical recovery.
He wants to help both pros and regular folks find ways to boost performance and feel better off the field. Honestly, it’s impressive how he keeps shaping what “balance” actually looks like for today’s and tomorrow’s players.
