The Future Takes the Field: 2025 Concacaf U-15 Championship Begins

Youth football takes center stage as the 2025 Concacaf Men’s U-15 Championship kicks off August 2. A record 38 Concacaf nations, plus guest team Saudi Arabia, are set to compete across three competitive leagues (A, B, and C), with divisions based on the most recent Concacaf U-17 rankings.

This year’s tournament promises to be the most talent-rich edition yet, showcasing the continent’s elite rising stars—and a few international head-turners.

Players to Watch

Robert Turdean (Chicago Fire) — Turdean enters as one of the most experienced U.S. players, having already won the 2023 UEFA Development Tournament while playing a year up. Fresh off signing his first pro deal with Chicago Fire, he’s the midfield engine and a name to remember.

Nathan Tchoumba (Colorado Rapids) — Tactical flexibility is the name of the game. Tchoumba has been ever-present in the U15 cycle, capable of anchoring the midfield or commanding the backline. He’s as intelligent as he is consistent.

Olatimoni Gbalajobi (Philadelphia Union) — If you’re looking for goals, look no further. Gbalajobi torched the MLS NEXT Cup with a brace in the final and topped the scoring charts for Philly’s U16s. He’s the U.S.’s primary goal threat.

Matthew Arana (Houston Dynamo) — Fresh off his pro debut in MLS NEXT Pro, Arana is one of Mexico’s brightest midfield minds. A dual-national playing with the Dynamo U19s, he brings maturity and control to Mexico’s spine.

Juan “El Mono” Martínez (LA Galaxy) — Martínez has dazzled in Mexico’s U15 camps with his creative spark and sharp vision. A classic No. 10 with an L.A. edge, he’ll be central to Mexico’s title hopes.

Da’vian Kimbrough (Sacramento Republic) — The youngest professional debutant in U.S. history will be wearing El Tri green. Kimbrough has already scored 6 goals in 11 matches for Mexico’s youth teams. A transcendent dual-national talent.

Manav Badwal (Vancouver Whitecaps) — A cerebral player with the toughness to back it up, Badwal is following in his older brother’s footsteps—already showing leadership from the back or in holding midfield.

John Chukwu (Toronto FC) — Just 13 years old, Chukwu is one of the youngest in the tournament but already making waves. He’s started for Toronto’s U16s and debuted internationally with Canada U16. Left back with a right mindset.

José Pierre (Panama) — From the midfield trenches to the final third, Pierre is Panama’s heartbeat. Playing for C.A. Independiente, he’s helped power the team to their national youth finals.

Kyan McDonald (Costa Rica) — MVP of Alajuelense’s U15s, McDonald is carrying the torch for the host nation. With consistency and a legacy surname in Costa Rican football, he’s one to rally behind.

Flashback to 2023 CONCACAF Championships

The U15 CONCACAF Championships has been a reputable international stage for the next generation, with it’s last edition including the likes of Cavan Sullivan, Giilberto Mora, and Julian Hall — all in which have signed professional contracts and feature consistently with their respective first teams.

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Mathis Albert Signs First Pro Deal with Borussia Dortmund  

One of the U.S.’s most electric young stars has officially gone pro. Mathis Albert, born in 2009, inked his first professional contract with Borussia Dortmund, a club known for turning youth into global superstars.

Albert made headlines earlier this year as the youngest player ever to feature in the FIFA Club World Cup, and now he’s fully locked in with the Bundesliga side. With a track record of goals, assists, and international experience from U15 to U17, he’s expected to play a key role in the U.S. squad at the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Gilberto Mora Making Magic

Despite the loss, Gilberto Mora stole the spotlight once again. The Tijuana forward bagged a brace with two stunning long-range efforts in a 5-2 loss to LA Galaxy. His goals brought Xolos level twice, but the Galaxy’s firepower ultimately proved too much—with goals from Nascimento, Pec, Paintsil, and German icon Marco Reus.

It’s just the latest chapter in a breakout year for Mora, who also won the Gold Cup with Mexico and scored in the MLS vs. Liga MX All-Star Game. He’s quickly becoming must-watch every time he touches the pitch.