Diego Luna: From USL Underdog to USMNT Contender | OneFootball

From Quakes to Barça Residency: A Unique Path

Diego Luna’s soccer journey didn’t follow the traditional “straight to MLS” path. No, he took the scenic route, starting in the San Jose Earthquakes academy, then making a pit stop at a Barça Residency Academy in Arizona (because why not sprinkle in some La Masia vibes in the desert?). But instead of an MLS contract straight out of the academy, Luna went the grind-it-out-in-USL route, joining El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship in 2021.

And let’s be honest, that move paid off. In 43 appearances, he racked up 13 goals and 9 assists, proving that he wasn’t just there for the sunshine and Tex-Mex. His performances impressed Real Salt Lake enough to come calling, signing him on June 2, 2022, for a then-record USL transfer fee. Soon after, he was already making his MLS debut against Vancouver Whitecaps. Talk about speed running your career.

The Breakout 2024 Season

Fast forward to 2024, and Luna was cooking for Real Salt Lake. In 31 matches, he contributed 8 goals and 12 assists, establishing himself as a creative force in MLS. His footwork? Immaculate. His passing? Chef’s kiss. His ability to make defenders look silly? Fantastic.

This level of play didn’t go unnoticed, as he was crowned MLS Young Player of the Year. Meaning MLS looked around at all the promising youngsters and said, “Yeah, this guy is THAT guy.” His creativity, technical skill, and ability to change games made him stand out among his peers, solidifying his status as one of the league’s brightest young stars.

Welcome to the USMNT, Kid!

With all that sauce in his game, it was only a matter of time before the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) took notice. On January 20, 2024, Luna made his senior national team debut against Slovenia. He played 77 minutes, created two chances, and had 37/45 accurate passes. Not bad for a debut, right?

But then, 2025 decided it was going to test his toughness.

The Broken Nose That Made Him a USMNT Legend (Kind Of)

Source

On January 23, 2025, Luna took an elbow straight to the nose, breaking it. Now, most people would take this as a sign to, you know, leave the game and get some ice. But not Diego Luna. Nope, he stayed in and, minutes later, delivered a perfect through ball to Brian White for the opening goal in a 3-0 match against Costa Rica.

Imagine breaking your nose, barely blinking, and then pulling off a dime of an assist like nothing happened. That’s the kind of grit and “Big Balls” that makes a player stand out.

Is a European Move Next?

Luna’s recent performances, especially his showing against Canada in the Nations League third-place match, have made one thing clear: this guy deserves a serious look for the USMNT starting lineup. His vision, creativity, and technical ability are next level, and he’s proving he can handle international competition with ease.

If he continues to play his cards right, Luna should be Europe-bound in the next transfer window. And if he keeps breaking noses (preferably not his own) and dropping assists, don’t be surprised if he becomes a staple for the USMNT in the 2026 World Cup.

One thing is for sure, Diego Luna isn’t just a rising star he’s a must-watch player who might just be on his way to something massive.