Rising Stars Illuminate the Weekend with First Team Action

During the past week, we witnessed a significant surge in participation from young players in the preseason alongside the first teams. We reviewed each player and discussed the expectations for them in the upcoming season.

January 29, 2024

Resilience Exemplified at the Highest Level of Soccer

Athletic Resiliency Exemplified at the Highest Level – Mental Giant

A key attribute elite level performers cultivate is the ability to adapt to difficult situations, like the daily work required to recover from an injury and return to the starting 11 or the stress of a World Cup tournament. If you take a look at the world’s top performers like Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest fútbol (soccer) players of all time, he has demonstrated remarkable mental resilience throughout his career.

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Rising Stars Illuminate the Weekend with First Team Action

During the past week, we witnessed a significant surge in participation from young players in the preseason alongside the first teams. We reviewed each player and discussed the expectations for them in the upcoming season.

Atlanta United:

Ashton Gordon (2007): A forward with impressive pace and adept at playing without the ball, constantly seeking space on the field. Given time and space, he poses a significant threat and boasts a commendable final product. Having represented Jamaica at the U-17 level, he now needs to elevate his performance to navigate more challenging situations.

Dominik Chong Qui (2007): A left back with exceptional pace and a robust physical profile, Chong Qui excels on both sides of the field, reminiscent of Wiley in his playing style. Having represented the United States U-16, this season is expected to see him in a full-time role with Atlanta United 2.

Rocket Ritarita (2007): A forward who played a pivotal role in Atlanta United U-16's triumph in the MLS NEXT Cup last season. Known for his pace, acceleration, and explosiveness, Ritarita is poised to make headlines this season if his game continues to evolve.

Cooper Sanchez (2008): A midfielder with outstanding technique and soccer IQ, Sanchez holds a high regard at Atlanta United, being the first player born in 2008 to debut with the reserve team. With abundant talent, this year is crucial for his development and contribution to the team.

  • Jonathan Ramson (2008)

  • Julian Bretous (2007)

  • Kaiden Moore (2007)

  • Owen Koutsos (2007)

Seattle Sounders

Etienne Veillard (2007): A forward or fullback endowed with good pace, agility, and speed. This year, he must aim to secure more playing time with the second team.

Kelvin Luis-Brito (2008): Noteworthy for his creativity as an offensive midfielder with proficient footwork last year. There is a possibility of his debut with the second team this year, although he needs to undergo physical development.

Gallatin Sandnes (2008): According to reports, he showcased his skills prominently during the preseason, earning praise from the Sounders' staff who are evidently pleased with his development. This year, his objective is to accumulate playing time with the second team, and it is evident that his growth is on an upward trajectory.

LA Galaxy


Harbor Miller (2007): A highly versatile player capable of performing as a fullback, winger, or midfielder. Miller played a crucial role for the LA Galaxy in securing the MLS Cup last season, showcasing his standout pace and technical abilities.

Ruben Ramos (2007): An exceptionally outstanding player in the academy, Ramos was a key part of the U-17 champion team. He contributed significantly with 9 games, 2 goals, and an assist for LA Galaxy II in MLS Next Pro last season. Notably, he has represented both the national youth teams of Mexico and the United States.

New York City FC

In addition to homegrown talents like Zidane Yañez (2008), Maximo Carrizo (2008), Christian McFarlane (2007), Drew Baiera (2007), and Jonathan Shore (2007), who made their preseason debuts, the team welcomed:

Adam Basse (2007): A center forward boasting an impressive physical profile and the top scorer for NYCFC U-17 this season.

Jacob Arroyave (2007): A defensive midfielder with excellent technical qualities and passing ability. Arroyave has taken a significant step forward by signing a professional contract with NYCFC II.

BW Gottschee Making Waves Amongst the U-17 Age Group

BW Gottschee has been nothing short of impressive this season, racking up wins amongst some of the top MLS academies in the U-17 age group such as:

  • CF Montréal (4-2 Win)

  • New England Revolution (3-2 Win)

  • NYCFC (5-5 Draw)

  • New York Red Bulls (2-0 Win)

The team is lead by striker Diego Kolon, who was highlighted by the MLS NEXT as a player to watch at MLS NEXT Fest and has scored 19 goals this season, including two goals against the New York Red Bulls.