Ranking the top 10 rising teenagers in MLS
By Michael Rice
7. Caleb Wiley (Atlanta United)
Atlanta United faced an injury crisis this season which elevated players from the academy to gain some valuable first-team experience. No one took advantage quite as much as Wiley, who at 17 years of age became a key player on the left side.
Wiley is a quick winger who can carry the ball well, attacks his opponent with his pace, and is showing signs of great delivery and link-up play. He has a goal and an assist to his name in his debut season while also showing his flexibility on the field.
While firstly used as a winger, Wiley has also played well at left back where he can use his pace and athleticism to join in attacks. His defensive game still requires some work at this level, but he has proven to be a consistently determined player who works hard to improve each game.
With so much expectation from the fans and the issues they have had with injuries, Wiley has shown great composure to step in and be a regular part of this team in a difficult year.
He will no doubt be relied upon in 2023 while also looking to add more international experience to his four U20 caps in the near future.