USL League 2 has some of the most talented players from the continent’s pre-pro ranks. The USL League 2 Scouting Network, powered by Soccer Syndicate, presents a high-profile League 2 top performer every two weeks.
Palmer Oort – Flint City Bucks – F
Alto is the youngest player on this list, and for good reason. His strength is unbelievable for his age, he is smooth on the dribble and has a good understanding of space. He has already scored twice in three games for Flint City, winning all of them, and is a regular starter for one of League Two’s most historic sides.
Pep Casas – NC Fusion – M
A highly technically skilled player, Casas routinely controls the ball and avoids hazards. Sometimes that means slipping past multiple defenders and using his tight control to get the ball into dangerous space. He’s created a lot of offensive power in the Fusion offense, which he’ll need if he wants to make more progress in the playoffs.
Sebastian Chalbaud – NC Fusion – M/F
A lean attacking midfielder, Charbot has made a big contribution to the fusion and recently made a move to the front line in the last game. He scored in spite of the trouble and used his lean frame to quickly change direction and move the ball forward. He works hard on defense, but skill and control are his calling card.
Max Chrétien – SF Glens – F
Chrétien has already filled the scoresheet for the Glens, one of the best teams in the competitive Northern California district. The six-footer has a combination of speed and strength that makes it difficult to move him off the ball. At this stage in his career, he’s far more of a finisher than a creator, with all the tools to succeed as a No. 9. He excels on turns, in space and especially in front of goal, and for a team of the highest aspirations Glens.
Christian Engman – Ballard FC – D
The tall, powerful, flowing left-footed centerback has been very clean and pain-free for Ballard FC so far this season. Bridges conceded just one away goal against United PDX all season. His 6’4 physique makes him well-suited to winning many battles in the air, sending the ball forward quickly through channels or tops.
Elliott Goldthorpe – Des Moines Menace – F
Goldthorpe has already made a name for himself at this level, and after a successful season at Hofstra, it looks like he’s back at it again with Menace. The six-foot forward has the technical ability to beat most defenders he’s ever faced. He can shoot with both feet, has great balance and can leave all options open when approaching defenders. He’s gearing up for a big season for Menace.
Mussan Ndiayi – Vermont Green FC – D
Ndiayi played as a defensive midfielder early in his college career, but recently settled down and transitioned to a back-line role. He made hard tackles and slashed through space to discourage attackers from picking him as a target. As he continues to improve in possession and playing from the back, he will continue to perform at a high level in one of Ligue 2’s most exciting teams.
Nick Paliano – Ocean City Noreasters – M
A diminutive, technical midfielder, Paliano continues to make waves for Ocean City after a successful season at Duke. Passing is his calling card and he can make passes all over the pitch. He wants the ball, he wants to carry it forward. He’s going to press aggressively and press hard. He’s already been a key factor in the Nor’easters’ rise and will need to have a good season to take them forward. He already has the tools and speed to do so.
Wessel Spiel – Long Island Rough Riders – GK
The 6-foot-6-foot-6 All-League goalkeeper is picking up where he left off, but wasn’t the busiest player on the team early in the season. It took him three games to score a goal against the Rough Riders, but Spiel aggressively directed the goal. His shot stop was crucial to Long Island’s success, and he looks poised to keep it for his next run.
Omar Yehya – Redlands FC – F
Yehya is one of the fastest players in League 2 and a full stop. His pace is underscored by his timing along the backline, where he can cut runs and create separations where many players are likely to be caught offside. He is a goal threat for Redlands and is strong enough to keep the play and wait for support. He will be a big contributor to Redlands’ offense for the rest of the season.
