Rising USMNT star makes MLS’ 22 under 22 list, but it’s Mexico who have the top vote getter

The MLS 22 beneath 22 checklist has been unveiled, showcasing the very best younger expertise within the league with Seattle Sounders midfielder Obed Vargas main the best way. Vargas is the primary Mexican participant to high the checklist after getting his first cap for El Tri in October of 2024 in opposition to america, which he was additionally eligible to characterize, and hung out throughout his youth profession of their setup. Vargas has three objectives and 5 assists in MLS play, beginning 26 matches for the Sounders to this point at solely 20, persevering with on a breakout 2024 the place he grew to become a daily starter for the membership.

The checklist, which is voted on by a panel of MLS coaches, basic managers, on-air expertise, and media, has been a staple within the league since 2010, with winners of this award repeatedly occurring to have success in different leagues in addition to MLS. That is the place the intrigue is available in for Vargas and different gamers who made the highest 22, like Alex Freeman, who’s on monitor to make the World Cup squad representing america.

MLS’ 22 beneath 22 for 2025

What’s attention-grabbing is the vary of backgrounds right here. There are 14 homegrown gamers listed, however even how they acquired to MLS golf equipment sees loads of paths with extra scouting of smaller academies and youthful gamers overseas. The impression of MLS’s U-22 initiative may even be seen with gamers like Makhanya having the ability to be match beneath the wage cap earlier than occurring to play a serious function in a Supporters’ Protect victory. 

The Union have essentially the most representatives within the checklist with three, as head coach Bradley Carnell has trusted in his youthful gamers and it has paid off to nice impact. MLS Subsequent Professional has been capable of present a spot for these gamers to get sport expertise, in addition to for golf equipment to place youthful gamers to play whereas they modify to transitioning to MLS, which Charlotte FC did with Toklomati. However to take a look at what these gamers may accomplish, let’s check out the earlier winners.

All-time winners

That is critical firm for Vargas to affix. From gamers who’ve gone on to have wonderful MLS careers to regulars of their nationwide groups, with loads of Champions League expertise in between. The Sounders have had a historical past of creating expertise, which is proven by Vargas’ win, placing them two behind FC Dallas for the all-time lead on this checklist, however as MLS has grown as a promoting league, the alternatives opened to gamers to high this checklist havee additionally grown.

It did not take lengthy for Diego Gomez to interrupt into the primary group at Brighton after becoming a member of from Inter Miami, and golf equipment overseas are seeing how MLS is making ready gamers for high leagues. Miguel Almiron and Alphonso Davies could have been trailblazers on the time, becoming a member of Newcastle United and Bayern Munich respectively, however extra gamers will proceed to translate success in MLS at such a younger age into success overseas.