Red Bull New York midfielder Adri Mehmeti has enjoyed a remarkable rise in 2026, going from aspiring prospect to one of MLS's brightest young talents and a US men's national team debutant.
This journey largely stems from a supportive family, especially backyard training sessions with his father at their home in Staten Island, New York.
"My mom, my dad are probably the biggest influences for me on and off the field," the 17-year-old homegrown said in Breakaway presented by AT&T.
"My dad, without him, I wouldn't be able to play this game. He gave me that love for this game."
Mehmeti is a key part of RBNY's youth movement under head coach Michael Bradley, a U.S. Soccer legend who starred in midfield during his own playing days. Bradley also coached Mehmeti with Red Bull New York II in 2025, and the youngster served as captain as they won MLS NEXT Pro Cup.
Fast forward to the 2026 campaign and Mehmeti has earned three USMNT caps and recently placed No. 3 on MLS's annual 22 Under 22 Rankings.
"My dad has given me a lot of advice. The biggest thing he's always said is be yourself, show who you are," Mehmeti said.
"… He's always said stay humble, be yourself. If you keep doing the right things, it all falls into place."
That mentality gets put to the test Saturday night when RBNY, amid the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs race, host defending champions Inter Miami CF (5:30 pm ET | Apple TV).
It will be yet another chance for Mehmeti to prove he's on the up and up, like he has all season.
