John Requejo

U.S. U20 Men’s National Team left back John Requejo Jr. posted on instagram on Wednesday that he signed his first professional contract with Club Tijuana. Requejo (Real So Cal/Carpinteria High School) was one of the best prospects of UCLA’s top-ranked 2014 recruiting class, which still includes the Gatorade Boys National Soccer Player of the Year Abu Danladi, U.S.  U18 MNT left back Chase Gasper, and a handful of other talented recruits.  

Requejo was the starting left back with the U.S. U17 Men’s National Team during the failed bid to qualify for the 2013 U17 World Cup. He is the fifth player from that defensive unit to sign a pro deal – joining Tommy Redding (Orlando City), Tyler Turner (Orlando City), Justen Glad (Real Salt Lake), and Erik Palmer-Brown (Sporting Kansas City).

The Carpinteria, California-native played in the midfield at the club level for much of his youth but transitioned into a defensive role with the national team. His combination of skill, vision, and athleticism opened up some opportunities abroad as he trained with a couple of German clubs earlier this year.

The 18-year-old will likely feature with Alejandro Guido, Stevie Rodriguez, Amando Moreno, and Paul Arriola as the American contingent on the Club Tijuana U23 and reserve squads next season. 

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