This week in Major League Soccer (MLS), discussions are heating up as fans weigh in on Matt Doyle’s much-anticipated 22 Under 22 ballot. It’s a lively conversation that revolves around which young talents are worth their weight in gold and which ones were perhaps overlooked. As the MLS gears up for its annual 22 Under 22 reveal, it’s no surprise that opinions are flying, and emotions are running high. From Diego Gomez to Esmir Bajraktarevic, this list highlights 22 players who are 21 years old or younger, all of whom are making their marks in the league. However, as with any rankings, there are bound to be snubs and surprises that spark a debate among fans and analysts alike.
Summary
- Matt Doyle’s list includes notable young talents but has incited mixed feelings among fans.
- Many fans express disappointment over players they believe deserved consideration but were left off the list.
- Debates over player performance and potential underscore the passionate nature of soccer fandom.
- User comments reveal a mix of admiration for certain players and frustration over perceived snubs.
Fan Reactions
The reaction from users on the MLS subreddit has been a blend of excitement and discontent. Many users expressed their admiration for the players who made the list, showcasing a community proud of its young talent. For instance, a user named ‘Matt_McT’ chimed in with, “Love me some Vargas. Dude is going to be good for Mexico.” Such comments reflect underlying hopes and aspirations among fans wishing for these players to shine on larger stages. However, the celebration of these young stars also comes with its critics. For example, user ‘thanksbastards’ argued that McGlynn should be rated much lower, citing concerns over his performance during the Olympics and a lack of improvement as the season progresses.
Snubs and Considerations
<p“As if you'd want to actually use your U22 players,” a comment from 'politicsranting' illustrates a certain level of skepticism about the actual utilization of these talented youngsters. Users are just as vocal about player omissions as they are about Doyle's selections. A noticeable snub, Brad Guzan, wasn’t just overlooked but actively labeled as 'robbed' by user 'billgluckman7.' For these supporters, being on an under-22 list does not just mean recognition; it reflects their potential to break through at the highest levels of the sport. The omissions, especially of promising players like Guzan, set the stage for impassioned discussions about market value, player potential, and future trajectories.
Players Who Made the List
<p Beyond the snubs, it's essential to spotlight the players who did make the cut. Among them, Diego Gomez and Diego Luna set tongues wagging. The youthful energy and skill these young men bring to the pitch have fans envisioning a bright future for the sport. User 'shermanhill' expressed enthusiasm for Luna, stating, "Man, I really like watching Luna play." This kind of enthusiasm is contagious, and it illustrates how players on the list can become instant fan favorites simply by showcasing their talent consistently. There's also the chatter about strategic gameplay that these talents have exhibited, with users eagerly discussing their contributions to club success, youth development, and potential roles in national teams.
Overall Sentiment in the Community
<p The overarching sentiment in the community points to a passionate fanbase keenly invested in these young players' futures. While praise is abundant for many individuals—prompted by their standout performances—frustration brews over perceived unfairness in the selection process. User 'foolinthezoo' expressed disappointment about one particular snub, citing that Ayala misses the cutoff just as he becomes a starter—a narrative many fans can relate to. This sentiment captures the heart of soccer culture, where fans often see their players' potential slipping through the cracks during such decision-making processes. As players continue to be scrutinized and ranked, it’s easy to understand feelings of proximity that fans develop toward their favorite athletes.
Yet in the swirl of affection, disappointment, and analysis, one thing is clear: the conversation around talented young players in the MLS is far from over. Fans will continue to debate, dissect, and celebrate their favorite players while dreaming of the next big thing. As the weeks go on, will any of these stars prove their mettle on the professional stage? Only time will tell, but underscoring their promise keeps everyone engaged in the excitement of MLS. The 22 Under 22 ballot might just be a number in the record books, but for fans, it symbolizes hope, aspirations, and a glimpse into the future of soccer in the MLS.