Real Salt Lake bets on Forster Ajago: is this MLS Pro talent the next big thing? | OneFootball

Real Salt Lake made moves in the market as they selected Forster Ajago during Stage 1 of the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft. The 23-year-old Ghanaian forward joins the club on a contract through 2025, with options to extend through 2026 and 2027.

From college standout to MLS prospect

Forster Ajago brings a very interesting background into the fray. Coming off a brilliant career at Duke University, he attracted interest from Nashville SC, who then signed him in advance of the 2024 season. The first year of professional soccer for Ajago was quiet, with only just under 400 minutes logged with the first team.

However, the forward found space to develop his game while playing for Huntsville City FC, Nashville's affiliate in MLS NEXT Pro. In 13 matches, he scored 7 goals and provided 3 assists-numbers that reveal efficiency and a clear ability to capitalize on opportunities. These stats, while modest in the bigger picture, show a player with the potential to grow and make an impact in a league that increasingly values young talent.

Adding depth to the attack

Ajago's arrival at Real Salt Lake has a clear goal: to add depth to the offensive unit. While the team's attack is in good hands anchored by established players like Chicho Arango and Anderson Julio, the need for reliable options off the bench became clear throughout the 2024 season.

Last season was solid for RSL, finishing third in the Western Conference. Despite a consistent performance in the regular season, the early playoff elimination — falling to Minnesota United in the first round — left a bitter taste and a clear warning: the team needed more offensive alternatives to endure the demanding pace and challenges of MLS.

The perfect opportunity for Forster Ajago

MLS is fertile ground for developing young players. Many athletes who started with limited minutes and modest opportunities have gone on to become vital contributors for their teams. Forster Ajago arrives at Real Salt Lake with precisely that scenario in front of him: a real chance to prove his worth in a competitive squad.

Besides, playing with a very experienced forward like Chicho Arango might give Ajaga that boost he needs to develop. Young players learn a great deal when they share the field and the locker room with high-level teammates, and Real Salt Lake offers the perfect structure to make such a transition.