Diego Luna’s journey with the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) has been dramatic, starting with an injury during a match against Costa Rica. Despite this setback, he quickly captured the attention of coach Mauricio Pochettino. Luna’s persistence was highlighted when he played through pain and assisted in scoring during a crucial moment for his team.

“I was very surprised, because it was broke, you know?” - Mauricio Pochettino in a post-match interview.
“But I didn’t want to say nothing [with] too much drama, because [it might] scare him. I told him, ‘How do you feel?’ He said, ‘Please coach, let me keep playing…‘”

With multiple accolades already, including key goals for USMNT, Luna is solidifying his place on the roster for the upcoming World Cup.

Luna’s Rise: Coming from a challenging background in the American soccer leagues, Luna explains his motivation is deeply personal, driven by a desire to uplift his family through soccer.

Often overshadowed, he now stands out in a talented squad, indicating that his unique path ensures he brings a competitive edge that resonates with Pochettino’s coaching style and philosophy.

Luna’s growing influence on the pitch has roots in his humble beginnings and is a testament to his hard work in an era dominated by elite academies and clubs.

As he prepares for the Gold Cup final, it is clear that Luna’s contributions could thrust him into international stardom, marking him among the brightest prospects for the USMNT.