San Diego FC made an excellent MLS SuperDraft pick on Friday, December 20, and several young players are already starting to catch attention.
Just a few days ago, the club’s sporting director, Tyler Heaps, revealed that San Diego FC is ready to sign big-name players, although that wouldn’t be the only strategy.
With names like Kevin De Bruyne and Diego Valdes linked to the club, the newest MLS franchise continues to prepare for an exciting debut season.
But before focusing on big names, there’s the development of young talent. This Friday at the SuperDraft, San Diego FC selected a midfielder compared to Sergio Busquets.
19-year-old Manu Guah earns full backing from San Diego FC coach
We are talking about Manu Guah, who was selected in Round 1, Pick 1 by San Diego FC. SDFC coach Micky Varas is so pleased with him that he even made some statements about his new player that will undoubtedly excite many fans.
In a press conference following the MLS Super Draft, Micky Varas, the inaugural head coach of San Diego FC, was asked which player he thought Manu Guah resembled.
Varas, after explaining that Busquets is Manu’s favorite player, highlighted the similarities he sees in his playing style.
“I don’t know, a player I would say… I know that Busquets is his favorite player. Obviously, Busquets is a ‘crack’, one of the best in history. But Manu has this technique for being a tall player. He has this technique that can make a difference”, said Varas.
A native of Ghana, Manu Guah has started in all 14 matches he has played for the Gauchos, with a record of 8-3-3 during those games.
He recorded his first collegiate assist on August 29 against the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Guah previously played in MLS Next for the Santa Barbara soccer club, helping them reach the MLS Next Cup matches in the U-19 group.
What were San Diego FC’s picks in the MLS SuperDraft?
In addition to Manu Guah, San Diego FC selected four promising players during the MLS SuperDraft:
Ian Pilcher (1st Round, 24th pick) – A standout defender from UNC Charlotte, Pilcher led his team to back-to-back American Athletic Conference Championships. Known for his defensive leadership, he captained a backline that ranked first nationally in shutout percentage and earned multiple AAC honors.
Harrison Bertos (2nd Round, 31st pick) – A defender from the University of Washington, Bertos showcased his versatility by starting 20 matches and contributing a goal and an assist in 2024. He also earned recognition from TopDrawerSoccer during the season.
Samy Kanaan (2nd Round, 56th pick) – A forward from the University of San Diego, Kanaan was a Third Team All-American and led his team in goals, including five game-winners. He has 15 goals across three collegiate seasons, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
Donovan Sessoms (3rd Round, 61st pick) – A forward from Sacramento State, Sessoms led his team with 10 goals and earned All-Big West First Team honors. He boasts a history of success from his time with Sacramento Republic FC Academy and collegiate play.
