Diego Luna of Real Salt Lake has been named the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Young Player of the Year. The 21-year-old midfielder's outstanding season was highlighted by 20 goal contributions, which included 8 goals and 12 assists, the second-most for RSL. Luna's performances played a significant role in RSL's Western Conference standings rise, securing a club-record 59-point haul and qualification for the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.

Luna's accolade places him in the company of other rising talents like Diego Rossi, as he becomes the second player in MLS history to register over 20 goal contributions in a single season before turning 21. The young American also became the third player in MLS history to receive the award after playing in the MLS NEXT program.

The decision to name Luna as the Young Player of the Year was made after a comprehensive voting process involving MLS club technical staff, media members, and current MLS players. Luna triumphed over fellow finalists Diego Gomez of Inter Miami CF and Cristian Olivera of LAFC.

The announcement sparked a variety of reactions on social media, with some asserting Luna's worthiness for the award due to his exceptional contributions to RSL. Others noted the potential of players like Gomez and expressed hopes for Luna's continued success in MLS without being lured away by other clubs. The online discourse further emphasized the significance of Luna's playing time and statistical performance in clinching the prestigious award.

As Luna joins previous laureates in the likes of Diego Rossi, Thiago Almada, and Ricardo Pepi, his recognition stands as a testament to his burgeoning talent and promising future in the MLS. With widespread support from fans and industry professionals alike, Luna's achievement solidifies his status as one of the league's brightest young stars, set to shine brightly in the seasons to come.

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