Diego Luna: The MLS Best Young Player

Diego Luna is quickly emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents in soccer, alongside names like Kobbie Mainoo, Ethan Nwaneri, and Lamine Yamal.

His technical brilliance, creativity, and impressive performances in Major League Soccer and international youth competitions have made him a rising star.

In 2024, Luna’s MLS Young Player of the Year award solidified his place among soccer’s elite young players​. His trajectory suggests a bright future both for Real Salt Lake and the U.S. national team.

Player Profile – Diego Angel Luna

Diego Luna, born September 7, 2003, is a standout attacking midfielder for Real Salt Lake and a rising star in American soccer.

He is known for his creativity, technical ability, and dynamic dribbling, Luna has excelled since his professional debut with El Paso Locomotive. In 2024, he earned the MLS Young Player of the Year award, reflecting his growing influence.

Internationally, Luna has represented the United States at youth levels, shining in the U-20 World Cup and CONCACAF tournaments. With his vision and flair, Luna is poised to become a key figure for both club and country.

Player Profile Overview

Diego Luna‘s Early Life and Background

Diego Luna, a rising talent in American soccer, was born on September 7, 2003, in Sunnyvale, California. Raised in a supportive family environment, Luna’s passion for soccer was evident from a young age.

Growing up in California, he quickly emerged as a standout player in local youth soccer circuits, showcasing exceptional skills and determination.

His journey through the soccer world began with Palo Alto Soccer Club, where his raw talent and creative flair caught the eye of many.

Recognizing his potential, Luna earned a place at the prestigious Barça Residency Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona.

This move proved to be transformative for the young playmaker, as it honed his technical ability, tactical awareness, and professional mindset.

During his two-year stint at the academy, Luna thrived under elite coaching, preparing him for the competitive demands of professional soccer​

Luna’s time at Barça Residency Academy allowed him to play alongside future professional standouts, including talents like Caden Clark and Rokas Pukstas, further sharpening his competitive edge.

Diego Luna‘s Playing Style and Strength

Diego Luna’s Club Career: A Remarkable Rise to Success

Diego Angel Luna began his soccer career at the Palo Alto Soccer Club, a grassroots academy that nurtured his early potential. In 2015, his burgeoning talent earned him a spot in the San Jose Earthquakes Academy, part of Major League Soccer’s elite youth systems.

At San Jose, Luna participated in high-profile competitions like the Dallas Cup and Generation Adidas Cup, sharpening his competitive edge alongside future stars.

In 2018, Luna made a pivotal move to the Barcelona Residency Academy USA in Arizona, a satellite program of FC Barcelona designed to cultivate top young talent. This experience allowed him to refine his technical abilities in an environment modeled after European standards of training and competition.

El Paso Locomotive: Professional Breakthrough

Luna’s professional breakthrough came in April 2021 when he signed with El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship, a key second-tier league in American soccer.

His debut on May 8, 2021, against New Mexico United marked the start of an exciting chapter. El Paso’s head coach Mark Lowry quickly praised Luna’s mentality, stating he had the potential to “go to the very top” [12].

Luna’s first professional goal came on June 3, 2021, in a dramatic 1–0 victory over Austin Bold. His well-timed header, assisted by Macauley King, showcased his ability to deliver under pressure.

In his debut season, Luna recorded an impressive 13 goals and 9 assists in 43 appearances, quickly becoming one of the most exciting young talents in the USL.

His standout performances with El Paso attracted attention from European clubs and MLS teams. Ultimately, Luna’s commitment to his growth and desire for a clear development path led to a record-breaking move to Real Salt Lake.

Real Salt Lake: A Historic Transfer and MLS Success

On June 2, 2022, Luna signed with Real Salt Lake for a reported $250,000, setting a record for a transfer fee between a USL and MLS club. Luna debuted on June 4, 2022, as an 88th-minute substitute against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

The move to Real Salt Lake marked his entry into Major League Soccer, where he immediately showcased his technical prowess, creativity, and vision [12].

At Real Salt Lake, Luna has played alongside notable teammates, including Jefferson Savarino and Damir Kreilach, who have helped him adapt to the rigors of MLS play. His versatility has allowed him to contribute as both a playmaker and wide attacker, making him an asset for RSL’s attack.

While still developing, Luna’s ability to create chances, maintain composure on the ball, and drive the attack has solidified his position as a player to watch in MLS.

His presence at RSL highlights the club’s focus on developing young talent and preparing them for potential moves to top European leagues in the future.

A Star on the Rise

Diego Luna’s journey—from youth soccer in Northern California to becoming a vital part of Real Salt Lake—is a testament to his dedication and skill.

Alongside his professional career, Luna’s background with elite academies like San Jose Earthquakes and Barcelona Residency laid the foundation for his success.

As he continues to shine in MLS, Luna remains poised for even greater achievements on the domestic and international stages.

For fans of exciting, creative soccer, Diego Luna is a name to remember. His upward trajectory reflects the new generation of American soccer stars set to make waves globally.

Diego Luna’s International Career: A Rising Star for the U.S.

Diego Angel Luna has steadily built an impressive international career, showcasing his skills at every youth level for the United States before breaking into senior contention.

Luna’s journey began early with U.S. youth national teams, receiving call-ups for the Under-14, Under-17, and Under-20 squads. His technical flair, vision, and attacking versatility quickly set him apart.

U-20 Breakthrough and CONCACAF Dominance

The 2022 CONCACAF U-20 Championship became a defining moment for Luna. As a key figure in the U.S. U-20 squad, he played a pivotal role in the team’s dominant run to the title.

Not only did the U.S. lift the trophy, but their victory also secured qualifications for both the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Diego Luna’s contributions in midfield were instrumental alongside standout teammates like Cade Cowell, Paxten Aaronson, and Quinn Sullivan, creating a formidable attacking core.

2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup Heroics

In the 2023 U-20 FIFA World Cup, Diego Luna continued his rise, emerging as one of the tournament’s most exciting prospects.

His creativity and dribbling ability were on full display, particularly in group-stage wins. Luna set up crucial goals, including a decisive assist for Cade Cowell against Slovakia, cementing the United States’ progression into the knockout rounds.

Across the tournament, Luna’s standout performances alongside Caleb Wiley and Aaronson elevated the U.S. to a strong finish. His ability to control the tempo and unlock defenses solidified his reputation as a rising playmaker.

Senior National Team Call-Up

Luna’s performances earned him his first call-up to the U.S. senior national team in January 2024, a significant milestone in his career. His transition to the senior setup highlights his growth and readiness to compete at higher levels.

The Mexico Allegiance Question

In mid-2024, Luna found himself at the center of an international discussion. Despite being eligible for the United States and having represented them extensively, he publicly considered switching allegiance to Mexico through FIFA’s one-time switch rule. This decision followed his choice to decline a role as an alternate for the U.S. Olympic team heading to the 2024 Paris Games.

Key Highlights and Notable Teammates

Throughout his U.S. international journey, Diego Luna has shared the pitch with exceptional talents like Paxten Aaronson, Cade Cowell, and Jonathan Gómez, forming dynamic attacking partnerships.

Diego Luna’s international career is still in its early stages, yet it is filled with promise, talent, and decisive contributions. Whether representing the U.S. or making a switch to Mexico, Luna remains a name to watch in global football.

Idols and Influence in Football

Diego Luna, the Real Salt Lake and U.S. Men’s National Team rising star, has not publicly disclosed a specific idol in soccer. However, his playing style and ambitions suggest admiration for players who excel creatively in attacking roles.

Comparison to Other Players

With his low center of gravity, exceptional dribbling, and vision, Luna draws comparisons to Lionel Messi for his ability to weave through defenders and make decisive passes. His skillful control and ability to break defensive lines mirror playmakers like Lorenzo Insigne and Gio Reyna.

Conclusion

Diego Luna’s rapid rise in MLS and international soccer highlights his immense potential. With creativity, vision, and technical brilliance, he stands out as a future star for both Real Salt Lake and the U.S. national team. As his career progresses, Luna’s impact will undoubtedly continue to grow​.