Roman Avakian Gomez — a young talent closely followed in Armenia, Mexico, and the United States

15-year-old midfielder Roman Avakian Gomez continues his rapid rise through the German football ranks. The Armenian-Mexican-American talent became a champion of the B-Junioren (U17) Regionalliga Südwest with Mainz U16, winning 11 out of 13 matches. The young Armenian was one of the key players of the team.

From San Diego to Germany

Roman was born in San Diego, California, to an Armenian father and a Mexican mother. He began playing football in the United States and moved to Germany with his family a few years ago.

In November 2024, Avakian signed a contract with Mainz 05. He first played for the U14 team, then for U16, where he quickly became one of the leaders.

Before joining the Mainz academy, Roman trained at TSV Schott Mainz.

PAYFA and his first steps with Armenia’s national teams

Through the PAYFA USA program (a branch of the Football Federation of Armenia focused on identifying young North American talent), Roman first stepped onto the international stage.

He represented Armenia U14 at the 2024 UEFA Development Tournament, and in May 2025 he played for Armenia U15 at the UEFA Development Cup in Yerevan, scoring a goal against Uzbekistan and converting a penalty in the shootout versus Georgia.

Roman has repeatedly emphasized the importance of PAYFA in his career:

“Thank you to PAYFA USA for bringing me onto the international stage and giving me the opportunity to represent my country. Without you, I wouldn’t be able to play for Armenia. The work is not finished. Glory to God.”

Three nations watching

By heritage, Avakian Gomez is eligible to represent Armenia, Mexico, and the United States. Although he currently plays for Armenia's youth teams, the choice at senior level remains open — both Mexico and the U.S. are closely monitoring his progress.

Amid increasing interest, Roman recently posted a photo in Armenia’s national team kit with the caption:
“They call — I answer!”

What they say about Roman in Mexico

Mexican scouts and football-focused accounts have already included him among the most promising players abroad.

scoutyoungmex:
“I’ve put together a list of 2010-born players competing abroad. Mexico’s U15 team, the reigning Concacaf champions, could be strengthened by players like these.”

Jovenes Futbolistas MX:
“MEXICAN IN THE BUNDESLIGA! Roman Avakian Gomez — new Mainz 05 player, midfielder with Mexican roots. Currently represents Armenia U14. Keep an eye on him.”

What they write in the United States

American analysts also rate Roman among the most intriguing players of the 2010 generation.

ussoccercollective:
“He’s close to becoming a name everyone knows. Almost 6 feet tall, left-footed, versatile and strong in both phases of the game. The U.S. keeps him in their sights.”

Marcus Chairez | US/SC:
“Roman was born in San Diego and lived there until age 12. A talented left-footer best suited for the No. 8 or No. 6 role, and can also play left-back. Strong in transition, excellent passer, reliable defender. One of the players to watch at Mainz — one of Germany’s top academies.”

Roman Avakian Gomez can play as an attacking or central midfielder, as well as on the wing. He stands out for:

• excellent vision
• high-quality passing
• unique technique
• maturity in decision-making beyond his age
• versatility and physical readiness