Taylor Twellman hails two ‘special’ USMNT prospects, rejects ‘next Messi or Ronaldo’ labels | OneFootball

Taylor Twellman has highlighted two standout New York Red Bulls teenagers while cautioning against early comparisons to Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, and underlined the experienced core the United States will need at a home World Cup in 2026.

Centre-forward Julian Hall, 18, has scored seven in 10 appearances. Central midfielder Adri Mehmeti, 17, has featured 10 times in all competitions, including eight league games with one goal.

"I would say first off, I would never label someone the next Ronaldo, Messi, or Pelé because that’s also unfair," Twellman said.

He was speaking to Men’s Journal.

"But we have young players in this league that are really, really interesting. I think the league has done a fantastic job of really making it a play-the-kids type of thing."

"Look at the New York Red Bulls, Hall and Mehmeti. These two kids are really special."

Drawn into Group D with Australia, Paraguay and Türkiye, the United States face a key early test. Twellman pointed to the established core as decisive.

"The three players that have to have their best World Cup are Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams. Those are three players that determine the pulse of the team. They’re the faces."

If that core hit top form and the next wave keep progressing, the hosts could build the momentum needed for a deep run.

Source: Goal.com