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2023 Major League Soccer Predictions: Awards and MLS Cup

By Christopher Adams

Nov 6, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; LAFC goalkeeper John McCarthy and Latif Blessing arrive
Nov 6, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; LAFC goalkeeper John McCarthy and Latif Blessing arrive / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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Coach of the Year
Winner: Gerhard Struber, RBNY

Oct 9, 2022; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York Red Bulls head coach Gerhard Struber looks on
Oct 9, 2022; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York Red Bulls head coach Gerhard Struber looks on / Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

I am 100% bought in on the Red Bulls this season. I think they're going to be the top team in the east and one of the premier favorites to finally hoist their first MLS Cup. Struber has been one of the highest regarded managers in the league since arriving late in 2020, and he'll finally have a true breakthrough campaign in Harrison this year.

Honorable Mentions: Greg Vanney (Galaxy), Oscar Pareja (Orlando), Brian Schmetzer (Seattle)

Young Player of the Year
Winner: Alan Velasco, FC Dallas

Oct 23, 2022; Austin, Texas, US; FC Dallas forward Alan Velasco (20) celebrates after scoring a goal
Oct 23, 2022; Austin, Texas, US; FC Dallas forward Alan Velasco (20) celebrates after scoring a goal / Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports

Alan Velasco looked sensational in flashes last season for Dallas. After a year to adjust, I think this is the year the Argentine wunderkind really pops and becomes a bonafide MLS superstar. His teammate Jesus Ferreira took home the trophy last year and that young duo is one of the best in the league.

Honorable Mentions: Kwadwo Opoku (LAFC), Thiago Almada (Atlanta), Talles Mango (NYCFC)

Newcomer of the Year
Winner: Dante Vanzeir, RBNY

Dante Vanzeir
Union St. Gilloise v KV Oostende - Jupiler Pro League / Isosport/MB Media/GettyImages

As previously stated, I'm extremely high on the Red Bulls this year. If RBNY has the season I expect them to, new Designated Player Dante Vanzeir will play a starring role. He's the most significant signing the club's made in years and he'll be tasked with finally filling the Bradley Wright-Phillips shaped hole at striker.

I nearly tabbed Orlando's Martín Ojeda for this spot, and I think he'll be among the frontrunners throughout the season.

Honorable Mentions: Evander (Portland), Martín Ojeda (Orlando), Giorgos Giakoumakis (Atlanta)

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