Top 15 under the radar players to watch in Copa America
5. Antonio Sanabria, F, Paraguay
The duo of Gonzalez and Sanabria form a creative and explosive attack that could help the Paraguayans be the surprise team of the Centenario.
Having just turned 20 years old in March, Sanabria is already prepped to become a star both at the club and international level. After playing sparingly in his early professional career at Barcelona and Roma, Sanabria was loaned to La Liga’s Sporting Gijon this season, where he scored 11 goals in 21 appearances.
That performance made Sanabria the most prolific teenage goal scorer in Europe, ahead of more heralded prospects such as Dele Alli. The fact that Sporting Gijon had just 40 goals in the entire season and narrowly avoided relegation makes Sanabria’s performance even more impressive, and he will get better with more support around him.
Sanabria doesn’t outmuscle the competition at 5-11, 162 pounds, but makes up for it with excellent finishing ability around the goal. While Sanabria has yet to score in five international appearances with the full squad national team, expect that to change the Copa America.
Gonzalez will provide Sanabria with the best service he’s had in some time to form a dangerous combination. The duo will help La Albirroja be up to the challenge of a difficult group with Costa Rica, Colombia and the United States.
Next: 4. Adalberto Penaranda, F, Venezuela