As young players climb through the ranks, many dream of donning the national colors but only a few are fortunate enough to have a choice of which nation to represent. Diego Angel Luna is one such lucky player, who’s open to playing for the USMNT if he gets the call-up from Mauricio Pochettino. Additionally, the young forward is also eligible to represent Mexico. 

The Real Salt Lake player has received call-ups with the United States under-14, under-17, and under-20 youth teams, and also made his debut in January 2024. Since then, Luna turned down the opportunity to be an alternate on the United States men’s Olympic squad and has been considering a one-time switch to El Tri. 

Speaking on ‘The Golazo Show’, the MLS Young Player of the Year revealed that he will make his decision once he gets a call-up from either side. “I am just continuing to work and waiting for my chance to you know, get that call-up, and like I have been saying, to prove myself in those opportunities that I get,” said Luna who helped Real Salt Lake finish second in the Western Conference this season. 

When asked about contact with any of the coaching staff from either side of the border, Luna admitted that he had yet to hear from anyone. “I have not had any conversations or phone calls with any of the US staff, I haven’t heard from either, no,” added Luna who is only the second MLS player to get 20 goal contributions in a regular season before turning 21. 

With 8 goals and 12 assists in his third season, his contributions helped Real Salt Lake to a record 59-point finish which earned them a place in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Given his strong performances at club level, an International cap is around the corner but what more do MLS players have to do?

Is MLS simply not good enough for International duty?

USMNT head coach, Mauricio Pochettino stated that the MLS players have equal opportunity to play for the Stars and Stripes when compared to their European counterparts. However, in the current USMNT squad, only 4 players are from the MLS, and among them, Tim Ream was the only one to feature in the side’s latest fixture. 

It is an improvement compared to the  2024 Copa América where not a single MLS player got game time for the USMNT. On the other side of the border, Carlos Vela who plays for Los Angeles FC has over 70 appearances for Mexico, which proves it’s not solely about the league, but rather the individual player’s skills. With almost 2 years before the next World Cup takes place in North America, Diego Luna will have plenty of time to prepare himself. For now, he will have to wait for the phone call that is sure to come!