Name: Julian Green
Born: June 6, 1995, in Tampa, Fla
Position: Midfielder/Left winger
Pro club: Bayern Munich
Why he’s in the news
After being a somewhat controversial inclusion on the U.S. national team at the World Cup final earlier this summer, Green has ascended the Bayern Munich ranks and is set to play his first full season with the big club. He could get significant time on the pitch when Bayern faces the Major League Soccer all-stars Wednesday in Portland.
He’s special because
His raw ability makes him a constant threat. Though he’s far from a finished product, Green’s speed immediately draws the eye and his ability to score separates him from the pack. He’s long been tabbed for soccer stardom and now sits on the precipice of making good on that promise.
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Club career
Green has been working his way up the Bayern Munich food chain for a few years now. Last season, he lit up the German second division with 15 goals in 23 appearances. The season prior, Green bagged 10 goals in 28 appearances playing as a 17-year-old on Bayern’s under-19 squad. The only thing working against Green this year is the fact playing time will be hard to come by on a stacked team.
International career
Because he only turned 19 roughly a week before the World Cup began, many eyebrows were arched when Green was named to the American squad. Prior to that event, his time with the U.S. national side was limited to 57 minutes in two friendlies. But coach Jurgen Klinsmann’s decision to put Green on the club was justified as the youngster netted a goal during his only appearance in Brazil.
His most famous moment
Green saw just 15 minutes on the field at the World Cup, but boy, did he make it count. Facing Belgium in the round of 16, the U.S. surrendered two goals in the first 15 minutes of extra time. With their hopes on life support, the Americans needed fresh legs and Klinsmann turned to Green. On his first touch of the ball, Green found the back of the net to pull his team within one goal. In doing so, Green became the youngest player representing America to score at the World Cup. Though the U.S. ultimately fell short, Green’s goal provided hope both in the game, and for what lies ahead.
Interesting fact
Green is the son of an American father and German mother.
What he’s saying
“I want to be the future of the U.S. men’s national team. But it’s all about me, I have to score goals and be good on the field.”