Caden Clark made an instant impact for the New York Red Bulls, scoring just 47 minutes into his MLS debut. It was a bright start for a 17-year-old midfielder who has high aspirations.
“I like to create, pass, integrate myself into the play, and make things happen,” Clark said in a recent interview with Transfermarkt. “I look up to someone like [Manchester United’s] Bruno Fernandes, who reminds me of myself in some ways.”
The young midfielder tallied 213 more minutes for the Red Bulls in the regular season, adding one more goal along the way. Clark also scored the opening goal in his side's playoff loss to eventual MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew SC.
Watch: Clark's game-winner in Atlanta
Clark also admires the likes of highly-respected international players Lionel Messi and João Félix, who he sees as a well-rounded player who's "abilities in numerous aspects of the game are something I idolize and aspire to be.”
He added he also looks up to fellow American and former Red Bulls midfielder Tyler Adams who he met on a visit to Leipzig.
“Tyler is someone I look up to immensely," Clark said. "He has risen and created a name for himself [which] is something I strive for and something that motivates me every day. Tyler is not only an outstanding player, but is someone who I can seek guidance from and chat with from time to time."
Clark is also excited to be part of a young crop of talented players who are opening eyes in MLS.
“It's incredible to see not just me, but other young talent making a mark in the MLS,” Clark said. “This opportunity to play against excellent players every game has allowed me to be challenged and truly test my abilities, ultimately making me a better player. MLS's young talent is so exciting to see, and I'm so lucky to be a part of it."
Transfermarkt evaluates the Minnesota native as the 6th-most valuable U-17 attacking midfielder in the world, but Clark isn’t letting that go to his head.
“I feel hungry for more," Clark said. "Why not strive for number one? These things are just numbers, and at the end of the day, you need to perform and be consistent. My performance has got me here, but my consistent play needs to keep me up at the top. When I'm confronted with numbers like this, it's just a message I need to keep working and keep grinding.”
