Fansided

Ranking the top 10 rising teenagers in MLS

By Michael Rice

Sep 10, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina (1) kicks the ball against Inter Miami during the first half at Bridgeview Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina (1) kicks the ball against Inter Miami during the first half at Bridgeview Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 16, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Obed Vargas (73) dribbles against the Inter Miami CF during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 16, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Obed Vargas (73) dribbles against the Inter Miami CF during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Obed Vargas (Seattle Sounders)

As heavily relied upon central midfielder João Paulo went down injured in the CONCACAF Champions League Final, a 16-year-old academy player stepped in and helped his side become the first MLS team ever to win the competition.

Vargas, born in Alaska, was the fourth-youngest player to make their MLS debut at just 15 years and 351 days old. Seattle Sounders have been a key producer of young talent in the league and before his injury earlier this year, Vargas was a shining example of the quality of youth talent.

A central midfielder, he breaks up play well in front of the defense and has composure and confidence way above his age. He retains the ball well and progresses it forward safely, part of the progressive build-up that the Sounders adopt in their style of play. Despite being just 5-foot-7 tall, he can leap high and compete aerially as well as able to read the game well to make interceptions and win possession.

Vargas has represented the United States at U15 and U20 levels but does hold dual citizenship, being of Mexican descent. Seattle has struggled to find suitable, consistent replacements for Vargas which is affecting their chances of qualifying for the playoffs this year, highlighting his importance to the first team.

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