Our talent-pool in the BabaScouted section is keeping on growing and developing.
While the football world is anxiously waiting for the COVID-19 pandemic to disappear and the return of the fans, Juan Gafas is keeping on finding raw diamonds in the ocean of football.
Mauricio Cuevas
Age: 17
Club: LA Galaxy II (USL, US 2nd tier)
Position: Full Back
Nationality: United States, Mexico
Market Value: N/A (Transfermarkt)
Mauricio Cuevas made his debut in the Galaxy reserve team last year at the age of 16. Now, at the age of 17, he could not be moved from the starting line-up. It is not a big surprise, as, despite his young age and the early stage in his career, he already played for the US youth national teams. While Mauricio was born in LA, his parents are from southwestern Mexico, which opens another possibility for him on the international level.
Cuevas is very comfortable on the ball, can dribble it forward quickly and shows no significant problem using his weaker left foot to control, dribble or pass the ball. He is very much forward-thinking, trying to progress the ball up the field quickly, and has the quality to make it count. Often looking for the line-breaking passes, even getting the forwards in behind the opposition defence when the option is there, which he executes well. His range of passing comes into use when delivering accurate diagonal switch balls too. In general, he shows good quality in the buildup phase and when going forward.
He was a real threat from set-pieces this season, scoring four goals and assisting one more with good delivery.
He is not big for a defender and seems to lack some upper body strength, but facing USL’s attackers, he did well enough, usually winning his duels. He recovers quickly, and I liked his shape in one versus one situation, where he uses his quick feet to good effect too.
Cuevas is gaining experience in an early stage of his career, and already shows promising qualities in possession, with a good base to improve on in other aspects. I won’t be surprised if sooner than later; he will be playing regularly in the MLS.
Photo via La Galaxy official website.
