2025’s Top 22 Athletes Under 22 Ranked

Major League Soccer (MLS) has officially released its annual 22 Under 22 list, recognizing the league’s most promising talents born on or after October 19, 2003. This ranking, reflecting the top players aged 21 and under, is determined by a panel composed of MLS staff, analysts, and technical directors from clubs across the league. The voting occurred from September 15 to September 26, 2025, with participation from 23 of the 30 MLS teams.

2025’s Top 22 Athletes Under 22 Ranked

The standout player for 2025 is Obed Vargas of Seattle Sounders FC. At just 20 years old, Vargas has garnered attention for his impressive contributions on the field, tallying three goals and five assists this season. His contributions helped Seattle secure the Leagues Cup title and perform well in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Cutoff: Players must remain 21 or younger until Decision Day on October 18, 2025.
• Voting Period: Balloting took place from September 15 to September 26, 2025.
• Voting Pool: A total of 64 ballots were submitted from a diverse group of team representatives.

Highlights of the Top Players

• Obed Vargas (Seattle Sounders FC): 3 goals, 5 assists. Key player in club successes.
• Freeman (Orlando City): 6 goals, 2 assists. Recognized as an MLS All-Star.
• Toklomati (Charlotte FC): 11 goals, 4 assists. Seized opportunities as starting No. 9.
• Wolff (Austin FC): 5 goals, 8 assists. Integral in team’s playoff return.
• Martínez (LAFC): 6 goals, 6 assists. Notable midfielder from Venezuela.
• Sullivan (Philadelphia Union): Prospective USMNT player despite an ACL injury.
• Miller (New England Revolution): Strong performance as homegrown left back.
• Ordaz (LAFC): 7 goals since earning a starting position.
• Gozo (Real Salt Lake): Emerging attacking talent at 18 years old.
• Brady (Chicago Fire FC): Consistent performance as a young goalkeeper.
• Allen (Inter Miami): Reliable defender noted for his versatility.
• Makhanya (Philadelphia Union): Key center back on a strong defensive team.
• Kelsy (Portland Timbers): Impressive debut season with 7 goals.
• Duah (San Diego FC): Pivoted to center back, aiding team success.
• Fernández (New York City FC): Strong campaign with eye-catching performances.
• Feingold (New England): Mainstay right back after moving from Maccabi Haifa.
• Westfield (Philadelphia Union): Emerging young defender on the USMNT U-20 squad.
• Romero (Minnesota): Crucial part of a top defensive unit.
• Yapi (Colorado Rapids): Notable improvement with 7 goals this season.
• Raines (Houston Dynamo): Key midfielder making strides in his career.
• Habroune (Columbus Crew): Emerging talent with creative midfield abilities.

The 2025 22 Under 22 list highlights the significant talent present in MLS, showcasing young players who are not only making a difference in their clubs, but are also poised to impact their national teams. As the league continues to develop, these athletes represent the exciting future of soccer in North America.