Promising Players Make Their Mark in MLS and International Play

Young players across MLS, MLS Next Pro, and international competition made history over the weekend, with Máximo Carrizo and Seymour Reid becoming the youngest players to debut for NYCFC. The U.S. U-17 national team wrapped up their Costa Rica tour with a win and a loss, showcasing their depth and attacking talent. Meanwhile, MLS Next Pro’s season opener saw standout performances from rising stars, including 14-year-old Sebastiao Nzita making his professional debut.

Author

Lucas Aguirre
March 25, 2025

Carrizo and Reid Make Club History with NYCFC

Saturday night was one for the history books as Máximo Carrizo and Seymour Reid became the youngest players to debut for New York City FC.

Just weeks after celebrating his 17th birthday, Carrizo, a standout from NYCFC II in MLS Next Pro, stepped onto the pitch in the club’s goalless draw against Columbus Crew. In his first 17 minutes, the young midfielder completed two accurate passes, won a duel, created a scoring opportunity, and made a recovery—marking a promising start to his first-team career. Carrizo, who has featured for both the U.S. U-17 national team and Argentina’s youth squads, is already proving his talent on a bigger stage.

Meanwhile, Reid’s debut comes just one week after signing his first professional contract with NYCFC II. His rapid progression within the club signals a bright future for the young talent.

San Diego FC’s Anisse Saidi Makes MLS Debut

The rise of young talent in Major League Soccer continues, with 16-year-old forward Anisse Saidi making his highly anticipated debut for San Diego FC against Austin FC. Born in 2008, Saidi’s first minutes in MLS mark the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career.

Before joining San Diego FC, Saidi developed his skills at the Philadelphia Union Academy, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s attacking success, tallying over 20 goal contributions. His impressive performances earned him a professional debut with Philadelphia Union II last year, further showcasing his potential at the next level.

On the international stage, Saidi has already gained experience with both the United States and Tunisia national teams. Most recently, he represented Tunisia, where he played a key role in securing important victories during their last tournament. With his early exposure to high-level competition and a natural goal-scoring ability, Saidi is a name to watch as he embarks on his professional journey in MLS.

More Opportunities = More Talent Through Sporting Athletic Club

Sporting Athletic Club has announced that tryouts are now open for players looking to take the next step in their soccer development. Starting in Fall 2025, they’re expanding opportunities by offering the MLS NEXT and Girls Academy pathway’s to more athletes, giving them the chance to compete at the highest level on a national stage. Teams include Zone 2 tryouts for Girls Academy, MLS NEXT & MLS NEXT II.

Whether you’re looking to refine your skills at Sporting AC Soccer Camps this Spring or join a team that prioritizes growth and competition, now is the time to get involved. Visit the Sporting AC website to register for tryouts and be part of a program that develops talent and provides opportunities for advancement.

U.S. U-17s Close Costa Rica Tour with Mixed Results

The U.S. U-17 national team wrapped up its friendly tour in Costa Rica with a win and a loss, gaining valuable international experience.

In their first match on Saturday, the Americans suffered a 3-0 defeat as Costa Rica’s Marcus Brown, Ernesto Umaña, and Maikell McDonald found the back of the net.

However, the U.S. bounced back on Monday with a commanding 4-2 victory. Goals from Lionel Gitau, Enrique Martinez, Tanner Rosborough, and Vitaliy Hlyut secured the win, while Costa Rica’s Nick Bennete and Kaden Ferrier added their names to the scoresheet.

MLS Next Pro Continues with Exciting Performances

The 2025 MLS Next Pro season opened with young players making an immediate impact across the league.

In the matchup between Houston Dynamo 2 and North Texas SC, Lukas Bruegmann (2009) scored his first goal of the season and provided an assist. His teammate Mattheo Dimareli (2009) also contributed with an assist, while 15-year-old Myles Gardner netted his first professional goal.

Sebastiao Nzita, just 14 years old, made his professional debut, becoming only the third player born in 2010 to play at this level.

Elsewhere, Omar Márquez recorded his first professional goal in Real Monarchs' clash against Colorado Rapids, and Chase Adams converted a penalty for his first goal of the season in his team’s loss to Inter Miami CF.