Ghanaian midfielder Manu Duah has etched his name in history by being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft.
The 19-year-old has been chosen by San Diego FC, marking a significant moment for both the player and the club as they prepare for their debut MLS season.
A Historic Achievement for Ghana and UCSB:
Duah’s selection makes him only the second Ghanaian player to be chosen first overall in the MLS SuperDraft, following Abu Danladi, who was picked by Minnesota United in 2017.
Duah’s achievement also holds special significance for the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), as he becomes the first student-athlete from UCSB to be selected No. 1 in any professional sports league draft.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Duah is known for his technical skills and versatility on the field, attributes that have made him a standout player in college soccer.
His selection by San Diego FC, the league’s newest expansion team, signals the club’s ambition to build a competitive roster with top-tier talent.
The Role of the No. 1 Pick in MLS
In Major League Soccer, the No. 1 overall pick is awarded to teams that are either expansion clubs, like San Diego FC, or to teams that finished with the worst record in the previous season, or those that acquired the pick through trade.
The SuperDraft serves as a vital tool for teams in need of strengthening their rosters, helping them gain access to some of the most promising young talent from college soccer.
Duah’s first taste of MLS action will come when San Diego FC kicks off their 2025 season on February 23 against the defending MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy.
The pressure will be on the young midfielder to deliver on the expectations that come with being the No. 1 pick, but his impressive college career and skill set suggest he is ready for the challenge.
The No. 1 overall pick is viewed as the most skilled and promising player in the draft, often regarded as a future star in the league. Duah’s selection underscores his exceptional talent and potential.
Being chosen first overall brings with it significant pressure to perform immediately. The No. 1 pick is expected to contribute quickly and become a key player for their new team.
For many players, the No. 1 pick represents the beginning of a successful professional career. It’s a pivotal moment in a player’s journey, offering both opportunities and challenges that can shape their future.
The No. 1 pick is also a recognition of a player’s exceptional ability and potential. It highlights their standing as one of the best prospects not only in the draft but in the entire league, often helping to elevate their profile both on and off the field.
