Who Is LA Galaxy’s Uriel Antuna?
Background
Twenty-one year old Uriel Antuna is taking the soccer scene by storm in the United States. Originally from Mexico, Gomez Palacio, a region known for its metropolitan zones rich in culture and art has provided a player that is as diverse as its area. His youth and size facilitate his style of swiftness and impressive footwork.
Antuna has been quoted saying, “…quiero ser uno de los mejores jugadores del mundo, no es nada más llegar al nivel máximo, yo quiero siempre más, nunca me doy por vencido,” which loosely translates to, “I want to be one of the best players in the world, it’s not enough to be good, I always want more, and I never give up.”
Youth And Mexican National Team
Antuna has made many youth appearances for the national team while developing with the Santos Laguna Academy. He later joined Santos Laguna in Liga MX, but signed shortly after with Manchester City. While in Europe he also played with FC Groningen.
In 2017 Antuna was called up by the Mexican national team but didn’t get his debut until 2019. Even though he wasn’t originally on the 23 man roster for the Gold Cup, he was eventually called up and has capitalized on the opportunity.
Mexico faced Cuba at the Galaxy’s old stomping grounds, the Rose Bowl on June 15th. Mexico beat Cuba 7-0 and Antuna contributed to the win, with a hat trick and an assist. His first goal was a fast goal as he scored before the 2nd minute of play, thus showing off his speed while making a statement.
Mexico then defeated Canada on June 19th. Antuna assisted a goal by beating Alphonso Davies and passing to Andres Guardado who scored. Antuna’s cut and pass were spectacular as Mexico defeated Canada 3-1. The Gold Cup is still underway, the Mexican team is favored to make it to the finals, and Antuna will continue to prove his spot on the team. Mexico will face Martinique on Sunday, June 23rd.
Performance With The LA Galaxy
Antuna is on loan from Manchester City for the LA Galaxy. As a starter, he is getting more playing time, which is what he generally lacked in Europe despite getting some playing time while on loan with FC Groningen. Antuna has always seen European soccer as prime soccer but was happy to come to Los Angeles because of the opportunity to play with Zlatan Ibrahimović and Jonathan dos Santos. Since arriving in Los Angeles, Antuna has expressed his like for the climate and culture, which is hopefully an incentive for him to stay longer with the Galaxy.
Antuna’s playing style provides a fast change of pace for the team. So far he has two goals and two assists for Los Angeles. Antuna is dedicated, he never feels that he has reached his potential, and always pushes forward. If you have seen him play, you’ll recognize him for his speed and persistence. He never gives up on a ball or a play and what he may lack in power, Zlatan makes up for. As long as Antuna continues to provide speed and passes, Zlatan should be able to find the back of the net.
Currently, Antuna is on a one year loan, towards the end of the season the Galaxy may try and keep him, either way, for now, he is making his name known.
Estadio Azteca | Photo Credit: Rogelio A. Galaviz C. | Under Creative Commons License