Emil Cuello

Emil Cuello is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Phoenix Rising of the USL Championship.

Early life

Cuello was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before his family moved to Orem, Utah, when he was five years old. He attended Orem High School, where he scored 23 goals in four seasons on the school's soccer team.

Cuello played four years of College soccer in [the United States|college soccer] at Southern Methodist University between 2015 and 2018. During his time at SMU, Cuello made 73 appearances, scoring 12 goals and tallying 17 assists for the Mustangs men's soccer|Mustangs]. In his freshman year at SMU, Cuello earned American Athletic Conference All-Rookie honors. As a junior, he was named the AAC Most Outstanding Offensive Player. His senior year, Cuello was recognized as AAC Tournament's Most Valuable Player and a first-team All-AAC selection.
While at college, Cuello also appeared for USL Premier Development League side Ocean City Nor'easters during their 2016 season.

On 11 January 2019, Cuello was drafted 19th overall in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft by LA Galaxy. On 27 February 2019, Cuello signed for the club. After two seasons in Los Angeles, Cuello's contract option was declined by the club on 30 November 2020.
On 20 January 2021, Cuello signed with USL Championship side San Antonio FC. On 25 August 2021, Cuello was loaned to fellow USL side Sacramento Republic, with Mitchell Taintor heading in the other direction in a swap deal.
On 15 December 2021, it was announced Cuello would join Sacramento Republic on a permanent basis ahead of the 2022 season. Following the 2022 season he was released by Sacramento.
Cuello signed with Phoenix Rising FC on February 2, 2023.