Top 15 under the radar players to watch in Copa America
10. Diego Rolan, F, Uruguay
While Suarez is set to join Uruguay on Wednesday and appears ready to at least play in the Copa America, nobody is sure how effective he will be after suffering a nasty hamstring injury while playing for Barcelona on May 23. That will likely mean more playing time and attacking opportunities for Rolan, who could make a name for himself with a good performance.
The 23-year-old has already established himself as a capable starter for Bordeaux at a young age after coming up with Uruguayan club Defensor Sporting. In 89 appearances at Bordeaux, Rolan has scored 24 goals, 15 of which came in 2015 as the team’s primary striker.
Rolan’s debut with the national team came in 2014, and he quickly established himself as a candidate for starting minutes with three goals in 17 appearances since. Even with a loaded roster, Rolan is worthy of a big role at the Centenario.
Uruguay head coach Oscar Tabarez likes to utilize two strikers and likes Rolan’s ability to provide support, making him a good option to help out Edinson Cavani in attack. Rolan can also add some highlight-reel goals with his excellent finishing ability, which could help replace whatever production Suarez loses.
The Uruguayans are going all out to win the Centenario, and will need contributions from everyone in opening games against Mexico and upstart Venezuela.
Next: 9.. Darlington Nagbe, M, United States