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

1. Ezequiel Barco

Like Brian Rodriguez, it has never quite all come together for Atlanta United’s Ezequiel Barco. Injuries stunted his development during his first two seasons at the club. Rumours of him falling out with coaches did not help either and there have been questions regarding his attitude and work-rate.

Despite this, his talent is undeniable, and more recently, he has begun to figure things out, especially as Atlanta have leaned on him more in the absence of Miguel Almiron and now Josef Martinez. In just 180 minutes this season, he already has two goals and one assist. He has averaged 2.5 dribbles per 90 and 4.5 touches in the penalty area per 90.

He is renowned for his dribbling ability, speed, agility in tight areas, and clever combinations. Atlanta set the MLS transfer record to sign him from Independiente in 2018, such is his natural ability. He is yet to live up to those standards, but the recent improvements are a positive sign.

Having only turned 21 in March, Barco still has time to blossom into the scything, direct, goalscoring winger that he was expected to be. And with more responsibility on him than ever, his elite talent may rise to the fore.