In January, Garth Lagerwey made his first splash as General Manager & President of Soccer when he negotiated a trade to select University of Washington product Cristian Roldan with the 16th pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft.
Now, a preliminary panel of soccer media members have chosen Roldan, as well. The 20-year-old midfielder from Pico Rivera, California has been nominated to the short list of 75 players that will make up the final “24 Under 24” rankings on MLSsoccer.com. A larger group of constituents will determine the 2015 edition, which is set to be released on September 22.
The final ranking was determined by five general criteria: Technical Ability, Soccer IQ, Physical Attributes, Personality and Potential.
Roldan has emerged as a key contributor for the defending Supporters’ Shield champions, making 11 starts on 21 league appearances in various parts of the midfield. A versatile and energetic player, the rookie has been relied on to provide both defensive support and creative playmaking this season.
If chosen in the final “24 Under 24” rankings, Roldan would join a select group of Sounders FC players to be recognized. Since the list became established in 2010, the Rave Green have had at least one player be represented, including two No. 1 players.
- 2010 – Fredy Montero, 1; Steve Zakuani, 4
- 2011 – Steve Zakuani, 4
- 2012 – Andy Rose, 24
- 2013 – DeAndre Yedlin, 3
- 2014 – DeAndre Yedlin, 1
