MLS: Top 5 youngsters to look out for in First Round

By Matt Coles | Oct 19, 2019

ATLANTA, GA OCTOBER 06: Atlanta's Ezequiel Barco (8) prepares to take a free kick during the MLS match between the New England Revolution and Atlanta United FC on October 6th, 2019 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

4 of 5

ATLANTA, GA APRIL 27: Atlanta’s Ezequiel Barco (8) moves the ball up the field during the match between the Colorado Rapids and Atlanta United FC on April 27th, 2019 at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. Ezequiel Barco

It is easy to forget, but to start the season, bar Carlos Vela, there was not a much dynamic attacking player in MLS than Atlanta United’s Ezequiel Barco. Skinning defenders left and right, he was the attacking injection that the Five Stripes required in Miguel Almiron’s absence.

However, because of a series of injuries, Atlanta have not seen much of Barco throughout the year. He played only 980 minutes on the season and ended the year with four goals and three assists. All four goals came in his first eight appearances.

The Argentinian can feature anywhere amongst their front line but is most useful in either the NO.10 role or coming in off the left-wing. He has electric pace, along with a trick or two that can outfox the opposition defence. And when you line him up alongside Josef Martinez, Julian Gressel and Pity Martinez, you have arguably the best front four in the league.

Home/MLS News