Will Mexico Begin to Take Talent from the United States?

In an unexpected turn of events, Mexico’s U-15 and U-16 youth national teams announced the inclusion of 18 players born and developed in the United States. Mexico has put emphasis on opening their recruiting with the inclusion of dual-nationals, bringing in top talent into their ecosystem.

January 24, 2024

Why Mental Strength Assessments Are Important for Elite Soccer Players

“College athletics tends to take a larger toll mentally than physically because of the demands and challenges student-athletes face in and out of their sport. The Mental Giant assessment and trainings have helped me to strengthen my mind to perform on and off the field and use my current strengths to my advantage.”

Shirzaad Ghadially - University of Wisconsin - NCAA D1 Men’s Soccer Player

Testimonials – Mental Giant

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A mental strength assessment gives you a deeper understanding of what it takes mentally to perform at peak levels, and allows your coach to develop you more effectively.

Orlando City Unveils the Signing Teen Prodigy Tahir Reid-Brown

Orlando City announced the signing of Tahir Reid Brown on a Homegrown contract, extending until 2027 with an option for an additional year. Despite expectations for participation with Orlando City B in MLS Next Pro, Reid Brown, a talented left back born in 2006, showcased his skills in the last U-17 World Cup with Team USA.

Last season, he made significant contributions to Orlando City B, playing 16 games and accumulating 435 minutes on the field. Reid Brown, known for his remarkable athletic qualities and defensive prowess, also exhibits versatility by being able to play as a central defender.

The Unexpected Presence of U.S. Born Talents in Mexico National Team Camps

In an unexpected turn of events, Mexico’s U-15 and U-16 youth national teams announced the inclusion of 18 players born and developed in the United States. Mexico has put emphasis on opening their recruiting with the inclusion of dual-nationals, bringing in top talent into their ecosystem.

Mexico U-16:

  • Marcelo Avalos (San Jose Earthquakes)

  • Mateo Gallegos (Philadelphia Union)

  • Azyk Gomez (LAFC)

  • Javier Martinez (Real Salt Lake)

  • Ademar Chavez (LAFC)

  • Da’vian Kimbrough (Sacramento Republic)

  • Francisco Mendoza (Columbus Crew)

  • Saulo Tejeda (San Diego Surf)

  • Lisandro Torres (LAFC)

Mexico U-15:

  • Anthony Juarez (LAFC)

  • Wilson Carrion (NYCFC)

  • Erick Luna (NYRB)

  • Juan Martinez (LA Galaxy)

  • Vicente Garcia (LA Galaxy)

  • Owen Cruz (Alianza)

  • Angel Ramirez (NYRB)

  • Anthony Guevara (FC Dallas)

  • Xavier Gomez (FC Dallas)

Notable mentions include Marcelo Avalos (San Jose Earthquakes), Ademar Chavez (LAFC), and Lisandro Torres (LAFC), who have already represented the United States at the U-15 level.

USSF’s Continued Efforts and Regional Identification Camps

While awaiting the national youth camp, the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) persists in it’s efforts, conducting regional identification camps. Recently, Talent ID sessions took place in New York/New Jersey, Georgia, and Florida, specifically targeting players born in 2009 for future national youth camps.