Miguel Ibarra is a star player for Minnesota United FC and recently received his first call-up to the US national team.
For the most part, that's all anyone who doesn't watch a ton of the North American Soccer League knows about the 24-year-old forward from Lancaster, California.
But thanks to Minnesota United FC, we can see a fairly lengthy Ibarra highlight reel (above video) from the 2014 season, and make a few rough deductions about his ability, style of play and prospects with the USMNT.
USMNT head coach Jurgen Klinsmann has said Ibarra is not afraid to run at defenders, and that's a major reason for his interest in bringing the player into the national team picture. Based on watching the above video, which surely depicts him in his most highlight-reel worthy moments, Ibarra is certainly comfortable doing just that and beating them regularly.
The 5-foot-6, 145-pound winger has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this year for Minnesota United, who sit atop the current NASL standings with a four-point cushion.
Ibarra is also said to have "batman speed," which seems an odd way of saying a player is fast. Just watch how he blows splits two defenders at midfield and rounds this goalkeeper with ease:
As is always the case, only time will tell whether or not Ibarra can cut it at the international level. We're likely to have a much better idea by the end of the week.
What past or present USMNT and/or MLS players does Ibarra remind you of? Is there a fair comparison, or does he stand out as a player with a unique skillset?
