Atlanta United’s Bello makes MLS history

Atlanta United’s George Bello became the sixth-youngest player in MLS history to score a goal when he gave his team a 1-0 lead against New England on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Bello, a 16-year-old native of Douglasville, hit a low, left-footed shot into the near corner of Brad Knighton’s goal in the 16th minute.

“I don’t think it’s settled down in me yet,” Bello said. “In a few hours I’ll probably be going crazy. To be able to help the team progress in the playoffs and positioning is even greater.”

It was Bello’s second start and third appearance this season.

Atlanta United manager Gerardo Martino, as he has done in the past regarding the team’s younger players, preached caution when asked if Bello was ready to become a consistent starter.

“I think we all have to remain calm with Bello, even though he has all the abilities to play,” Martino said. “He’s only 16 years old. We know we have two finals left to play and the playoffs after that. We know that he’s capable if called on to play.”

Bello said he had no celebration planned after his goal. He ran to the crowd in the Supporters’ Section and tried to dance, but his teammates mobbed him before he could get going

“I was Milly Rocking, that was the only thing that came to my mind,” he said.

Bello said he knew that he needed to improve in all areas from his first start, which came against Real Salt Lake on Sept. 22. Among the areas was endurance and improving in the little areas. He said he was satisfied he did better in all areas. He said he was more relaxed than nervous. He completed the game with four tackles, completed more than 85 percent of his passes and created one chance.

Teammate Jeff Larentowicz said Bello was good in a lot of different way. He was pleased with his one-on-one defending.

“They got to him on that side, but they never got past him,” Larentowicz said.

YOUNGEST TO SCORE A GOAL IN MLS HISTORY (years.days)

14.320 Freddy Adu

16.161 Jesus Ferreira *

16.173 Diego Fagundez *

16.217 Santino Quaranta

16.253 Eddie Gaven

16.257 George Bello

16.312 Jack McBean

16.332 Fuad Ibrahim *

* scored on MLS debut