American Soccer Legends Praise Young Star Diego Luna as Future of USMNT

Renowned American soccer figures Landon Donovan, Alexi Lalas, and Maurice Edu have expressed high praise for Diego Luna, who’s emerging as a key player for the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) and is vying for the starting number 10 position ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In recent matches, Luna scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Guatemala in the Gold Cup semi-final, advancing the team to the final and highlighting his rapid rise from the USL league to international prominence. His performances have garnered admiration, with Donovan recalling, “Three years ago, Luna was playing in the USL for El Paso Locomotive. I even coached against him.”

He has since scored three goals in two matches under coach Mauricio Pochettino, including his first international goal during a tense quarter-final shootout against Costa Rica. The Argentine coach is counting on Luna’s impressive form to help the USMNT upset tournament favorites Mexico in the upcoming final.

Diego Luna scored twice in the first 15 minutes to send America through to the Gold Cup Final

Landon Donovan, who coached Luna in the USL, and Alexi Lalas, a former USMNT player, have both praised Luna’s rise and impact.

Despite missing out on last year’s Olympic team, Lalas believes Luna, born in 2003 and currently playing for Real Salt Lake, is gaining momentum for a World Cup spot, impressing with his performances and leadership. He remarked on Luna’s ability to silence critics and maintain a positive trajectory ahead of the Gold Cup final.

Edu echoed this sentiment, shifting the discussion from Luna’s potential to whether he will secure a starting role, with many now considering him a strong contender for the vital No. 10 position. As Pochettino’s side prepares for Saturday’s final, Luna aims to help the USMNT secure its eighth Gold Cup title and prepare for the upcoming World Cup.