Jon Bakero González Bio
Jon Bakero González (born 5 November 1996) is a Spanish footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Charlotte Independence in the USL League One. In 2017, Bakero won the MAC Hermann Trophy, an annual award given to the top college soccer player in the United States. Bakero has established himself as a talented player with a strong collegiate background and a diverse professional career across various teams in the United States and abroad.
Early Life and Background
Jon Bakero González was born in Sitges, Spain. He grew up in a family with a rich football heritage, being the son of former professional footballer José Mari Bakero, who played for notable clubs such as Real Sociedad and FC Barcelona. This familial connection to the sport likely influenced Bakero’s early interest in soccer. His youth career began at La Blanca Subur, where he honed his skills before moving to various clubs, including Agrykola Warszawa and Lech Poznań.
Bakero’s education included playing college soccer for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He was a regular starter throughout his college career, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. His time at Wake Forest was marked by significant achievements, including leading the team in scoring during his senior year and earning multiple accolades for his performance.
Path to Soccer
Bakero’s journey into professional soccer began after a successful college career. He made his debut for Wake Forest on 29 August 2014, and over the course of four years, he made 88 appearances, scoring 37 goals. His performance during his junior year was particularly noteworthy, as he played a crucial role in leading the team to their first ACC Men’s Soccer Championship since 1989. Bakero’s success in college soccer set the stage for his transition to the professional ranks.
In 2018, Bakero was selected by Chicago Fire SC with the fifth overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft, marking the start of his professional career. His early experiences included playing for FC Tucson in the Premier Development League, where he continued to develop his skills while maintaining his NCAA eligibility. Bakero’s determination and hard work paid off, leading to a successful entry into Major League Soccer.
Jon Bakero González Career
Early Career (2016-2018)
Bakero began his professional career with FC Tucson in 2016, where he made a significant impact in the Premier Development League. His performance caught the attention of scouts, and he subsequently signed with Chicago Fire SC in 2018. He made his professional debut on 14 April 2018, coming on as a substitute in a match against LA Galaxy. His early career was characterized by rapid development and opportunities to showcase his skills on a larger stage.
After his time with Chicago Fire, Bakero was traded to Toronto FC, where he continued to gain valuable experience in Major League Soccer. His time with Toronto included a loan to Phoenix Rising FC, where he further established himself as a capable attacking midfielder.
Breakthrough (2018-2021)
Bakero’s breakthrough moment came during his time at Wake Forest, where he won the MAC Hermann Trophy in 2017. This prestigious award recognized him as the best college soccer player in the United States, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the sport. His collegiate success translated into professional opportunities, leading to his selection in the MLS SuperDraft.
Following his time with Toronto FC, Bakero signed a permanent contract with Phoenix Rising, where he continued to develop his game and contribute to the team’s success. His versatility and skill set allowed him to adapt to different playing styles and positions, further enhancing his value as a player.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jon Bakero González’s signature work includes his standout performance at Wake Forest, where he not only led the team in scoring but also earned multiple accolades, including the MAC Hermann Trophy. His professional journey has seen him play for various teams, including FC Tucson, Chicago Fire SC, and Phoenix Rising, showcasing his adaptability and talent across different leagues.
Jon Bakero González Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jon Bakero González has received recognition for his achievements, including the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy, which he won in 2017 for his outstanding performance in college soccer.
Jon Bakero González Awards Won
Jon Bakero González has won the MAC Hermann Trophy, awarded in 2017, recognizing him as the top college soccer player in the United States. This accolade highlights his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport during his collegiate career.
Jon Bakero González Family
Jon Bakero González comes from a family deeply rooted in football. His father, José Mari Bakero, is a former professional footballer who represented Spain at the international level. This connection to the sport has undoubtedly influenced Jon’s career path and passion for soccer.
Personal Life
Details about Jon Bakero González’s personal life remain private. However, it is known that he is the son of a former professional footballer, which adds to his legacy in the sport. As he continues his career with Charlotte Independence, fans and followers look forward to seeing his future contributions on the field.