Top Talent Rising: Unveiling the Spring 2024 Team Rankings

#1 Chicago Fire: 12W / 0T / 1L

Overview:

Chicago Fire dominates the MLS Next U-15 scene, not just in numbers but with a sophisticated tactical approach under Coach Selim Talbi. The team, beyond its statistical prowess, is hailed for fostering some of the most promising prospects in the league.

Key Players:

Robert Turdean (2010): An offensive midfielder, Turdean operates as a false nine or attacking midfielder, renowned for his 1v1 dribbling, creative playmaking, and clinical finishing within the box.

Roko Pehar (2009): A versatile box-to-box midfielder, Pehar stands out for his exceptional passing ability and technical finesse, providing a robust presence across the midfield.

James Field (2009): As a central defender, Field acts as a defensive wall with an astute reading of the game, complemented by a strong physical profile and composure on the ball.

#2 Total Futbol Academy: 15W / 0T / 1L

Overview:

Total Futbol Academy’s 2009 class doesn’t just excel on the west coast but stands out nationally with an impressive record of 15 wins and 1 loss. The Los Angeles-based team is recognized not only for its results but also for the high potential it displays on the field.

Key Player:

Alexis Mondragon (2009): Positioned as a dynamic right winger, Mondragon brings a combination of physical prowess, raw power, and impressive pace, making him a key asset in the team’s attacking strategy.

#3 Columbus Crew: 11W / 1T / 2L

Overview:

Columbus Crew not only met but exceeded preseason expectations, leaving a positive impression with 2 wins and a draw in the last MLS Next Fest. The team is anticipated to maintain it’s momentum through the remainder of the season.

Key Players:

Jamil Danjaji (2010): A dynamic and powerful forward, Danjaji, who has been with the U-15s since the previous season, consistently showcases explosive speed and an ability to create imbalances in the opponent’s defense.

Prince Forfor (2009): Recently joining from Minnesota United, Forfor brings physical strength a clinical finishing to the center forward position.

Gianmarco Di Noto (2009): An exceptional central defender and on-field leader, Di Noto stands out for his strong reading of the game and adept passing abilities.

#4 FC Dallas: 9W / 1T / 2L

Overview:

FC Dallas is having a stellar season, seamlessly combining tactical intelligence with technical prowess, all while placing a strong emphasis on offensive creativity.

Key Players:

Jordyn Eason (2009): Eason, a fast and dynamic forward, adds an element of explosiveness to the team’s attacking front, showcasing not just speed but also technical finesse.

Caleb Wegman (2009): With an impressive physical profile and towering height, Wegman stands as a goal-scoring center forward who capitalizes on his physical advantage.

#5 Colorado Rapids: 10W / 4T / 1L

Overview:

Colorado Rapids shine in goal-scoring, boasting an impressive 30 goals this season, indicative of their continuous improvement year after year.

Key Players:

Kamal Sawadogo (2009): A complete central defender with exceptional anticipation and aerial play, Sawadogo forms a formidable presence in the team’s defensive line.

Owen Malick (2008): A technically outstanding bio-banding player, Malick showcases intelligence and good passing ability despite being a year above his peers.

Alex Hernandez (2010): Positioned as a skillful left winger, Hernandez impresses with his intricate footwork and precise ball striking technique, contributing to the team’s attacking flair.

#6 Atlanta United: 8W / 3T / 2L

Overview: Atlanta United lives up to high expectations, employing an aggressive offensive game and effectively utilizing the talents of their skilled wingers. The team’s proactive approach aligns with the initial anticipations for the season.

Key Players:

Ignacio Suarez (2009): As an offensive midfielder, Suarez acts as the crucial link between defense and attack, displaying not only technical finesse but also soccer intelligence.

James Donaldson (2009): The confident goalkeeper Donaldson, with impressive skills, has earned a spot representing the U-15 USYNT, showcasing the team’s depth in talent.

Fred Bond (2010): Positioned as an electric and fast right winger, Bond combines athleticism with technique, adding dynamism to the team’s attacking strategy.

#7 Houston Dynamo: 10W / 3T / 2L

Overview:

Houston Dynamo’s solid season, marked by only 2 losses, firmly places them among the top ten teams, setting high expectations for the remainder of 2024.

Key Players:

Daniel Barrett (2009): An impressive central defender, Barrett is a leader on the field, boasting game reading skills, technical finesse, and a strong defensive presence.

Mattheo Dimareli (2009): As a skilled right-winger, Dimareli, with a preference for his left foot, stands out for his wide array of skills, including dribbling and ball striking. His participation in the U-15 USYNT in Portugal adds to his credentials.

#8 San Jose Earthquakes: 8W / 3T / 3L

Overview:

The Earthquakes impress on both ends of the field, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the MLS Next Cup. The team’s balanced strength and promising performances make them favorites for the title.

Key Players:

Marcelo Avalos (2009): Avalos, likely one of the best goalkeepers born in 2009, brings a tri-national representation (USA, Mexico, Iceland) to the team and has participated in the U-15 USYNT, setting high expectations for a successful 2024.

KK Spivey (2009): An outstanding box-to-box midfielder, Spivey, often regarded as the best 2009 player in the U-15 age group, showcases a blend of elite technical qualities and impressive pace.

Will Ostrander (2009): Positioned as a right-winger, Ostrander stands out for his excellent technique and 1v1 dribbling, effectively creating space for himself and his teammates while demonstrating a keen understanding of the game.

#9 Barca Residency Academy: 8W / 4T / 2L

Overview:

Barca boasts an impressive record of 8 wins, 4 ties, and 2 losses, underscoring its reputation as one of the top non-MLS academies. Known for instilling a highly productive philosophy and tactical prowess, Barca demonstrates a remarkable success rate in player development.

Key Player:

Makai Wells (2009): A standout winger with exceptional pace and ball control. Wells, recently joining from DC United, possesses a keen ability to read defenders, showcasing outstanding dribbling skills.

#10 LA Galaxy 10W / 2T / 4L

Overview:

LA Galaxy stands out with a stellar record of 10 wins, 2 ties, and 4 losses in a highly promising season. The 2009 generation proves to be one of the most productive in terms of player depth and quality, with noteworthy victories against LAFC and an undefeated streak in the MLS Next Fest.

Key Players:

Mathis Albert (2009): An electrifying winger known for his Olympic goal against NYCFC. Albert’s dribbling and body feints make him a formidable force, with expectations for an outstanding 2024.

Victor Garcia (2009): A skilled defensive midfielder, Garcia impresses with his game reading and impeccable positioning. Known for covering vast ground, he is a defensive warrior.

Maximus Steelman (2009): Recognized for his distinctive blonde, curly hair, Steelman is a productive and effective center forward, blending athleticism with a keen scoring ability.