On Saturday, April 27, Atlanta United homegrown Efraín Morales made his first career MLS appearance against Chicago Fire FC.
Morales joined the Atlanta United Academy for the inaugural 2016-17 season. He made 22 appearances for the U-12 squad and scored four goals. Since then, he has worked his way up the Academy to Atlanta United 2 and now the first team. That time includes being called up for countless youth national team camps for both the U.S. and Bolivia.
We sat down with Morales and asked him 17 questions for the 17s to get to know him better.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Disciplined, calm, and happy.
Pre-game music choice?
I actually kind of make it a point to not listen to music pre-game.
What does your upbringing mean to you?
It is cliché, but it means everything to me. All my friends and family are from there [Suwanee].
Who is the one person you wish you could bring to Atlanta to see you play?
My grandma from Bolivia. She might be coming soon, so that could happen.
What is aspect of Bolivian culture are you most fond of?
The dancing. In the US, you don't see it as much. In Bolivia, people express themselves very freely through dance.
What is your first soccer memory?
Getting (nut) megged. I was playing for UFA, which was like a local club. Some kid just kicked it through my legs.
What your relationship with your family like?
Coming from a Latino family, we are very close. We spend a lot of time together. I would say we have a good relationship.
How does the game sort of link your family together?
None of my family grew up playing soccer or watching it. But with me being a part of it now, I am the reason they come together. They are there to support me.
How would you write your own scouting report?
Tall, but technical. Not necessarily the fastest but composed on the ball. Good in the air.
Do have any pregame superstitions and rituals?
I don’t really have any superstitions or pregame rituals because I try to get in the mindset that it is me that will play the game well, not that outside influences will set me up for the game.
When you go out on the road, what is something you must have with you?
A good book.
What is the last good book you have read?
Trust. But I forgot the author.
Go to snack?
Oatmeal, funnily enough. Oatmeal with peanut butter.
If you were not a professional soccer player, what would you be doing?
I am currently taking classes at Georgia Tech for finance, so something within that sector.
Best advice you have ever received?
Don’t compare yourself to others because everyone is on a different path.
What is it about soccer that brings you the most happiness?
The relationships with people. I love meeting new players, and the relationships I build with them. I love seeing different types of players and the different ways they play.
What do you want the 17s to know about you?
I want you to know that I will try to keep it as real as possible, and I will try to work as hard as I can for you guys.
