In recent years, Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs have been investing more and more in youth development. This is a great move for the league, as it helps to ensure that the talent pool of players is constantly being replenished. Two of the most notable examples of this investment in youth are the deals that Chicago Fire FC have made with Polish midfielder Przemyslaw Slonina and Spanish forward Javi Duran.
The Slonina deal saw the Fire sign the 18-year-old from Lech Poznan for a fee of $2.5 million. This was a significant investment for a player who had yet to make his professional debut, but the Fire saw the potential in Slonina and were willing to take a risk on him. The move has paid off, as Slonina has become a key part of the team and has made over 20 appearances for the club since joining.
The Duran deal was even more impressive, as the Fire signed the 20-year-old from Spanish side Real Zaragoza for a fee of $4 million. Again, this was a significant investment for a player who had yet to make his professional debut, but the Fire saw the potential in Duran and were willing to take a risk on him. The move has paid off, as Duran has become a key part of the team and has scored 10 goals in his first season with the club.
These two deals are great examples of how MLS clubs can invest in youth and reap the rewards. By investing in young players with potential, clubs can ensure that they have a steady stream of talented players coming through their ranks. This is something that all MLS clubs should look to emulate, as it can help to ensure that the league remains competitive and continues to grow.
In conclusion, MLS clubs should look to Chicago’s Slonina and Duran deals as examples of how to invest in youth. By taking risks on young players with potential, clubs can ensure that they have a steady stream of talented players coming through their ranks. This is something that all MLS clubs should strive for, as it can help to ensure that the league remains competitive and continues to grow.
