The 2024 Players to Watch

It is still early to determine definitively, but the 2009 generation appears to harbor a group of players with significant potential, and we eagerly anticipate observing their development in the coming year. Our list of players to watch in 2024 comprises four remarkable talents: Omar Hassan, Mathis Albert, Adri Mehmeti, and Kaedren Spivey. These players gained valuable experience in the UEFA Development Tournament in Portugal, securing victories against the hosts and Italy but facing defeat against Scotland. Nonetheless, their performance affirmed our expectations for this age group.

Among the standout players in this cohort is Cavan Sullivan, who had an extraordinary 2023. He distinguished himself as the only player born in 2009 to compete with the U-15 national team (2008s) and currently plays two years up with Philadelphia Union U-17. Similarly, Ethan Degny, the sole 2009-born player in the U-17 age group for Atlanta United, showcased his talent by moving up this season.

The roster also includes the highly-rated center forward from Michigan, Malik Jakupovic, who impressed with 15 goals before the MLS Next Fest. Linkon Ream, an outstanding fullback with Real Salt Lake U-15, continues to earn accolades from scouts, and the list closes with Marcelo Avalos, a goalkeeper, and midfielder Roko Pehar, both of whom showed promise in the latter part of 2023.

Shifting to the 2008 generation, widely regarded as one of the best in the United States, our expectations for these young talents are exceptionally high. Players like Nimfasha Berchimas, Maximo Carrizo, and Julian Hall are anticipated to make their mark in the professional environment. Zidane Yañez, having signed his first professional contract with NYCFC, is set to continue his impressive streak in 2024, having represented Puerto Rico and Chile at U-15 levels.

Philadelphia Union duo Jamir Johnson and Anisse Saidi, after a stellar 2023, are crucial to maintaining Philadelphia Union U-17's undefeated status. Cooper Sanchez, the first 2008-born player for Atlanta United 2 in Next Pro, displayed remarkable skills at Next Fest, seeking to contribute to the U-17 national team.

Jude Terry, a box-to-box midfielder, had a memorable 2023, while Cristiano Oliveira and Chase Adams showed promise in their initial steps. Real Salt Lake's Gio Villa and Omar Marquez, winners of the Concacaf U-15 championship, are expected to have another strong year. Isaiah Kaakoush, subject to potential movements, remains a player to watch in 2024.

Looking ahead to 2024, the 2007 class is poised for significant developments, with players like Gabriel Mendoca, Ian Charles, Jackson Platts, Justin Ellis, and Tomo Allen aiming to secure minutes in the professional game. Diego Rocio, Stefan Chirila, Nick Almeida, and Jackson McNeal are set to play pivotal roles for their respective teams. Giovanni Granda, after a meteoric rise in 2023, is expected to continue making waves at Chicago Fire, training with the first team and increasing expectations for the coming year.