When a LA Galaxy organization which admittedly did not have much time to prepare for the 2019 MLS SuperDraft selected Emil Cuello out of Southern Methodist University with the 19th overall pick, some pundits derided the selection as a long-shot, noting the 22-year old wasn’t a full-time starter during spells.

The Argentine born self-admitted Boca Juniors fan obviously didn’t get the memo, and after earning extended minutes in the middle of the park and winning fans over with his crafty play, this afternoon the club announced they are rewarding Cuello with a first-team contract.

“We are excited to welcome Emil to the LA Galaxy,” Galaxy GM Dennis te Kloese said in a statement. “He has played well during our preseason, showing his abilities and technicality. We look forward to Emil officially joining our roster and his contributions during the upcoming season.”

The Galaxy open the season Saturday March 3rd against the Chicago Fire.