Real Salt Lake announced the signing ofl Axel Kei, American striker of origin Ivorian, who with 14 years and 15 days became the youngest footballer to sign with an MLS team.
In this sense, surpassed the record that was held by Freddy Adu, forward born in Ghana but with an American passport, who joined DC United at 14 years and 39 days in 2004.
“While e n the past year, Axel has proven to be one of the best attacking prospects in the country. His propensity in front of goal is well beyond his years and, coupled with his elite athleticism, he projects to become a goalscoring force in our league for years to come,” said Elliot Fall, general manager of Real Salt Lake.
Who is Axel Kei?
Kei signed a two-year contract with RSL. Before coming to the US he grew up in Basil, where his father played professional soccer. In 2017 he moved with his family to San Diego, California. There he defended the colors of the San Diego Youth Soccer Club (from LA Galaxy).
The young striker debuted last October with the Real Monarchs. With only 13 years, 8 months and 9 days, he became the youngest professional player in the history of the United States.
During that summer he led the sub-team 15 of the RSL Academy to the final of the Western Conference of the MLS Next Cup, where they lost against New York City FC. In addition, with five goals in five games, he won the Golden Boot .