Selected number eight overall by Atlanta United back in January in the the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, 23-year-old Julian Gressel has proven himself one of the league's top off-season acquisitions this season. With five goals and nine assists in 30 appearances for the expansion side, the German's productivity and crucial role in Atlanta's early success has officially earned him a spot on the MLS Rookie of the Year ballot released today by the league.
Competing collegiately in the NCAA just a year ago, his quick adaptation and consistent performance in the professional game has turned the heads of many.