Minnesota United continues to look at players to fill out their roster, bringing MLS vet Jeb Brovsky, Uruguayan winger Elbio Alvarez, and Minnesotan Grant Bell with them to Mexico. All three players are trialists and will possibly see the field against Pachuca Reserves tomorrow.
Brovsky, 27, is possibly most notable for being New York City FC’s second official signing. A defensive midfielder first with experience starting at both fullback spots, Brovsky saw the field 104 times in MLS play with NYC, Montreal Impact, and Vancouver Whitecaps. Earlier this offseason, he was given a trial with New England Revolution but was not offered a contract. Brovsky’s intellect is a stronger asset than his physical traits, which may make him a good foil for Justin Davis and Kevin Venegas in case of injury or suspension. During his trial with the Revs, thebentmusket.com called him a “shrewd MLS signing… as a viable starting option and substitute at multiple positions.” He also boasts one of the best cult followings of any athlete – the Jebi Knights. Assuming the price is right, he would be a great pickup for the team for this year and beyond.
Alvarez, 21, featured as an attacking midfielder and left winger for the Uruguayan U-17’s in a runner-up finish in the 2011 World Cup. He signed with Benfica in Portugal in 2015 and has been run out 15 times with their B team. Alvarez is quick with the ball at his feet and offers impressive acceleration and finesse. He doesn’t have much of a defensive prowess (based off of his U-17 WC highlights as well as one match with Benfica that I found online), but could fill Yago’s former mantle as a “toolsy young guy who might be a smart investment for the future.”
Bell, 22, has experience playing fullback, forward, and centerback. A graduate of Little Falls High School, Bell played for Bradley University, where he notched six goals and nine assists from 2012-2014 (note: BU’s website hasn’t posted the 2015 season stats, though he was an honor roll athlete). Those who saw him play in high school say that he’s wicked fast and boasts an impressive vertical. He saw the field against University of Nebraska-Omaha in a friendly on March 5, subbing in at right back for Venegas in the 80th minute. Like Alvarez, Bell figures to either be a starter for the Reserves or a sporadic first-teamer.
Minnesota United will face Pachuca Reserves, Cruz Azul, and the Mexican U-20s over the next ten days.
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