Seattle Sounders FC Academy forward Azriel Gonzalez is currently in training camp with the United States U-16 Boys National Team. A regular for both club and country, this is Gonzalez’s first call up of 2017, as well as his fourth since September. The young striker scored a goal in his last appearance with the Stars and Stripes.
After finishing up 2016 in searing form, Gonzalez kicked off the New Year with a match-winning assist against Portland Timbers. His prominent displays with the Academy were rewarded with an invitation from Sounders FC head coach Brian Schmetzer to join the first team for preseason. Since then, the young striker has scored 5 goals in 6 starts with the Academy. In his first full season with the U-16s, Gonzalez has tallied 12 goals and 6 assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.
Gonzalez was one of 24 players called into the 9-day camp by U.S. U-15 head coach Shaun Tsakaris. The camp presents the staff with an opportunity to evaluate the player pool before selecting a squad for the Mondial Minimes Tournament in Montaigu, France, which kicks off April 11 and ends April 17.
Gonzalez returns from Bradenton, Fla., on the 13th, and thus will not be eligible for the upcoming match against Vancouver Whitecaps. However, he should be available for selection the following weekend when the Rave Green take on De Anza Force and Santa Cruz Breakers.
The full roster for the camp can be found here.
