LA Galaxy’s Araujo, Alvarez named to 2021 MLS 22 Under 22

In case you missed the announcement on Tuesday, MLS released their annual 22 Under 22 list. The aptly named list ranks the top 22 players, under the age of 22, currently in the MLS.

The last few lists have featured a couple of LA Galaxy players, and this year’s edition is no different, as two players return to the list, in vastly improved positions at that! Galaxy defender, 20-year-old Julian Araujo, and midfielder, 19-year-old Efrain Álvarez, both make the list.

For Araujo, his appearance at No. 5 is a huge leap from last year’s No. 12. The defender, who recently declared for the Mexico National Team, has been an important part to Greg Vanney’s rebuild. Not just solid in defense, the Mexican has shown ability to play up-top, providing an added dimension to the Galaxy attack.

A regular on the list since being signed as a homegrown talent, Efrain Álvarez sits at No. 12 this year, a nice five-spot improvement from his 2020 ranking of No. 17. The youngster has been one of the players this new era of LA Galaxy has built around. Not even scratching the surface of his prime, this year has been a look into just how talented the Mexican international is.

While the team as a whole looks forward to securing their spot in the postseason, it's good to know that whatever the outcome of this year, the future looks incredibly bright with these two leading the way.

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