MLS: 5 stars who could shine at Copa America

By Matt Coles | Jun 14, 2019

ATLANTA, GA MAY 08: Atlanta United's Josef Martinez (7) looks back at the goal after his shot just missed during the MLS match between Toronto FC and Atlanta United FC on May 8th, 2019 at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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BRONX, NY – JUNE 24: Alexander Callens #6 of New York City celebrates the 2nd goal by Jo Inge Berget #9 of New York City during the MLS match between New York City FC and Toronto FC at Yankee Stadium on June 24, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York. New York City FC won the match with a score of 2 to 1. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Corbis via Getty Images) /

Alexander Callens – Peru & New York City FC

The final man on the list is another Peruvian. Alexander Callens has been with New York City FC since the start of the 2017 campaign. The only defender on this list has shown his class in the Bronx over the last two and a half seasons, playing 76 times in that period.

The 27-year-old has played 14 times for his country ahead of this year’s Copa America and will be looking to help solidify the Peruvian backline as they face Brazil, Bolivia and Venezuela in the group stages.

That is no easy task for the NYCFC defender. He will undoubtedly be tested all the way. But then, that is what international football is for, right?

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The action starts on Friday, June 14, as hosts Brazil take on Bolivia in a Group A clash. 26 games later, and on Sunday, July 7, we will know the winner of the 2019 Copa America, after the final at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro.

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