Forwards

Kervon Kerr (Toronto FC)
A walking highlight reel. Kervon Kerr lit up the season with his directness, pace, and ability to take over a game in the blink of an eye. Whether he was blazing past defenders on the wing or making decisive runs in behind, he brought energy and chaos to every match. Kerr wasn’t just flair — he was efficient in front of goal and clutch when it mattered. You could feel games shift when the ball came to his feet.

Justin Ellis (Orlando City)
Ellis was a problem all year for opposing back lines. Strong on the ball, quick in tight spaces, and always looking to make something happen, he became Orlando City’s go-to guy in the final third. His ability to glide past defenders and create goals out of nothing separated him from the pack. What stood out most? He was relentless — never stopped pressing, never took a moment off. That mentality, paired with skill, made him special this season.

Gustavo Caraballo (Orlando City)
Orlando’s attack was stacked — and Caraballo was a huge reason why. Slippery off the dribble, composed in the box, and unselfish with the ball, he was the perfect compliment to Ellis. He showed real maturity in the way he timed his runs and rarely forced things. Defenders couldn’t afford to give him an inch. He punished mistakes all season long.

Van Parker (Real Salt Lake)
Van Parker wasn’t just part of RSL’s attack — he was the attack at times. A true playmaker with vision and awareness well beyond his age, Parker was the link between midfield and front line. He kept the ball moving, found pockets of space, and always made himself available. His decision-making in transition was elite, and he was one of the most fouled players in the league — a testament to how hard it was to slow him down.

Midfielders

Rylan Hashimoto (Real Salt Lake)
Hashimoto did it all. Box-to-box energy, smart distribution, and rock-solid positioning — he was the midfield anchor every team needs. Rarely flashy, but always effective, he was the guy making everything click behind the scenes. He constantly scanned the field, read plays early, and shut down counters before they even started. He played like a veteran all season.

Eric Izoita (Portland Timbers)
There’s something special about Izoita’s game. He plays with intensity and intent, but also with real class. He led the Timbers in ball recoveries and was always at the center of every transition moment. Whether breaking up plays or launching an attack, he had a hand in everything. He’s the kind of player who raises the level of everyone around him — the heartbeat of Portland’s midfield this season.

Dylan Vanney (LA Galaxy)
Vanney’s touch and timing stood out every single game. His confidence on the ball, even under pressure, helped the Galaxy control the middle third. But what really elevated his game was his intelligence. He knew when to push, when to hold, and how to break lines with a simple pass. A true rhythm-setter who gave structure to every Galaxy build-up.

Defenders

Jackson Platts (Orlando City SC)
Platts led by example. Physical, locked-in, and vocal, he brought a presence to Orlando’s back line that opponents felt immediately. He won his duels, dominated in the air, and was always the first to organize his line on set pieces. He played with edge — and with discipline. When Orlando needed to see out games, Platts was the one holding the back line together.

Astin Mbaye (AC Milan / NYRB)
Mbaye’s rise this season was no fluke. After dominating for New York Red Bulls, his quality drew overseas attention, and now he’s linked with AC Milan. Watching him play, it’s clear why. His anticipation, strength, and timing in tackles were elite. But it’s his ability on the ball that really set him apart. He’s not just a stopper — he starts attacks with pinpoint passes and calm under pressure. One of the top defensive talents in the country, no question.

Eddie Chadwick (LA Galaxy)
Chadwick didn’t always grab headlines, but he was rock solid every week. Positionally sound, rarely caught out, and deceptively quick, he made his mark with consistency. He did all the little things right: intercepted passes, cleared danger, and stepped into midfield when needed. A classic no-nonsense defender with clean technique.

Goalkeeper

James Donaldson (Atlanta United)
Donaldson had a standout year and built his case as one of the best youth goalkeepers in the country. He came up big in key moments — especially in the GA Cup — with massive saves and ice-cold composure. His shot-stopping instincts were elite, but what really caught attention was his distribution. Whether launching counters or playing short, he was always in control. Atlanta leaned on him in pressure situations, and he delivered.

Final Thoughts

This group isn’t just a collection of highlights — it’s a list of players who showed up week after week and carried real weight for their teams. Some are already on pro radars, some will be soon, but all of them made the 2024/25 season unforgettable.

From dominant attackers to midfield maestros to defensive leaders, this squad reflects the strength and depth of the youth game right now. And trust us — this won’t be the last time you hear these names.

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