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MLS: 3 players who could follow in Alphonso Davies’ footsteps

By Andrew Dowdeswell

USMNT, MLS, CanMNT, Alphonso Davies (Photo by Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
USMNT, MLS, CanMNT, Alphonso Davies (Photo by Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images via Getty Images) /
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USMNT, MLS, CanMNT, Alphonso Davies
USMNT, MLS, CanMNT, Alphonso Davies (Photo by Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images via Getty Images) /

This week, Alphonso Davies was named the Bundesliga Rookie of the Year. Here are three young MLS stars who could follow in his footsteps and excel in Europe.

After breaking through with the Vancouver Whitecaps, Alphonso Davies arrived at Bayern Munich keen to prove that he could flourish in Europe. It did not take him long. Eventually settling in at left-back, Davies made 40 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing three goals and nine assists. And this week, he was named the Bundesliga’s Rookie of the Year. But who from Major League Soccer could follow in his footsteps?

Here are three young players who could excel in Europe if given the opportunity.

LAFC, Brian Rodriguez
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 08: Brian Rodriguez #17 of LAFC against Philadelphia Union during a game between Philadelphia Union and Los Angeles FC at Banc of California Stadium on March 08, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rob Ericson/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

3. Brian Rodriguez

Signed midway through last season to a young DP deal, Brian Rodriguez is yet to truly light MLS up as expected. The Uruguayan, who is hugely thought of in his native country and joins fellow prospect Diego Rossi at Los Angeles FC, forming a frightening front three alongside league MVP, Carlos Vela, has all the tools to succeed at the highest level.

He is devastatingly quick, boasts terrific long speed too, is a capable dribbler, especially in one-on-one situations, and is a consistent threat on the counter-attack. Give him space and he will make any defence pay. However, in terms of production, Rodriguez has failed to deliver.

He is yet to record a goal or an assist in over 500 minutes of MLS action. That is not going to cut it for a player who dreams of making a European switch one day. Nonetheless, like with Davies, the natural tools are all there. He just needs to put them all together. And having only turned 20 in May, in that regard, time is on his side.

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