Player Profiles: Benji Lopez, needing minutes, goes on loan to Arizona United

Benji Lopez was the fifth player to graduate from the RSL Academy to the first team. A native of San Diego, Lopez played for the youth soccer club San Diego Surf before moving to Arizona to join RSL's Academy system. He played for the RSL Academy from 2012 to 2013 before being signed by RSL on July 15, 2013.

Later in 2013, Lopez received two call-ups to the U.S. U-20 squad by Tab Ramos in preparation for the CONCACAF qualifications for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup. During that same calendar year, Lopez also scored his lone tally for the Claret-and-Cobalt Reserves in the 3-2 win over Vancouver's Reserves on July 16, 2013.

As Lopez continues his professional growth through the Salt Lake Reserves, Lopez has the ability to become a more clinical finisher. At the age of 19, the U.S. youth international has a lot to learn before he becomes first team quality.

For example, during his 2014 loan stint with Arizona United, Lopez played seven times but was unable to secure a goal. With increased experience for both club and country, will Lopez be able to learn to become a striker that both teams need?

Those players who registered nearly no minutes in 2014 are unranked. Benji Lopez is one of those five.

Editor's note: This is part of a series of player profiles recapping the 2014 season and previewing the 2015 season. Player ratings were compiled via a vote by RSL Soapbox writers. Statistics are via mlssoccer.com.