LA Galaxy defender Julian Araujo was named No. 5 while midfielder Efrain Alvarez was named No. 12 to the 2021 22 Under 22 presented by BODYARMOR.
22 Under 22 presented by BODYARMOR is a list of the top 22 players in MLS under the age of 22 as voted on by an expert panel consisting of MLSsoccer.com analysts, MLS Player Department staff and external media members.
Araujo, who hails from southern California and recently opted for Mexico’s national team over the United States, has taken MLS by storm in 2021, emerging as a centerpiece in head coach Greg Vanney’s rebuild of the five-time MLS Cup champions. He has shown eagerness to bomb up the flank and supply assists, all while getting stuck in defensively. Phrased another way, the high-potential fullback ably combines sparks with ruggedness.
A regular on 22 Under 22 lists ever since signing with the LA Galaxy as a homegrown player, Alvarez continues to reach more milestones in his burgeoning career. The attacking midfielder is a rising talent for Mexico’s national team and has become an integral piece for the Galaxy’s new era under Greg Vanney. As the left-footed creator exits his teenage years, he’s enjoying his most productive season yet in MLS.
