The Promising Future of Galaxy’s Youth

The hope of what lies in the days to come for the team rests upon the next generation of young talents.

The landscape of the MLS has changed significantly over the past decade, and while the model of attaining older stars and experienced players at the tail-end of their careers has certainly left its mark on the league, it appears that soccer is now thriving on the fact that the younger players are making a name for themselves and are having a strong impact on the field.

While the Galaxy have continued to struggle to find their identity, there have been some positive areas on the team that we have been fortunate enough to look to, and the spotlight is on their young players.

The two young standouts for the Galaxy last season were without question, defender Julian Araujo and midfielder Efrain Alvarez.

Julian Araujo

The 19-year-old Araujo has shown a tremendous amount of promise. On and off the field, he appears to have gained a significant amount of confidence as his play has been more impactful, and he does not look to be as shy when it comes to speaking to the media as he did in 2019.

He has been heavily involved in humanitarian work in his native Lompoc, California, and registered a total of 1,298 minutes in 17 appearances last season for the Galaxy along with 3 assists and 1 goal. He has shown great signs of maturity and was a vital part of the club in this tumultuous 2020 year. He additionally debuted for the US Men’s National Team this week, where he also marked his first assist.

Efrain Alvarez

Alvarez, 18, has also been garnering much attention over the past couple of years and has seen success with Mexico’s youth national teams and was also recently called up to the US Men’s national team along with Julian Araujo. US MNT head coach Gregg Berhalter made a comment stating that Efrain fitness has looked a lot better, and it looks like he will be given a chance to represent the nation. Alvarez registered 718 minutes in 16 appearances alongside a single goal and two assists on the season in 2020.

It would not be a surprise to see either of these players being scouted by big-name clubs in the near future. They need to continue to maintain the excellent form they are in and continue to grow and showcase impressive performances.

The two are both on the roster for the LA Galaxy next season and we should be seeing an increase in minutes for both players.

Featured Image: Scott French/MLSSoccer.com