Luna, McGuire among MLS players deserving January USMNT call-ups

The U.S. men’s national team might not have its full squad available for its first match of 2024, but January’s friendly vs. Slovenia will still have major importance for many players.

Gregg Berhalter’s squad will welcome Slovenia to Phoenix, Arizona in what will be the opening match for both nations. While the international friendly will come during the European club season, there will be opportunities for both young and experienced players alike.

Diego Luna, Duncan McGuire, and Chris Brady are just three of several MLS players that enjoyed positive 2023 club seasons and will be seeking a strong start to the 2024 schedule. Brooks Lennon’s career-best year with Atlanta United certainly warrants him consideration for inclusion as well.

Here is a closer look at the MLS players deserving January USMNT call-ups:

Diego Luna, Real Salt Lake

Lyndsay Radnedge/ISI Photos

Diego Luna was an offensive live-wire for Real Salt Lake in 2023 and should be among the considered candidates for January USMNT involvement.

Luna’s five MLS goals in 2023 were tied for the third-most for RSL while his three assists ranked him in the top-nine among RSL players. He started in 14 of his 23 league appearances for Pablo Mastroeni’s squad, showing strong attacking abilities out wide.

Luna enjoyed much success with the USMNT U-20’s and will now aim to carry that over into the senior squad.

Duncan McGuire, Orlando City

Steve Limentani/ISI Photos

2023 was a memorable season for Duncan McGuire.

McGuire enjoyed a stellar rookie campaign with Orlando City, totaling 13 goals and three assists in 29 league appearances. The former MAC Hermann award winner was key in the Lions earning the Eastern Conference’s No. 2 seed ahead of the MLS Cup Playoffs, joining Facundo Torres as the only other double-digit goalscorer in the Orlando City squad.

McGuire’s physicality and aerial abilities could be an added benefit to the…

Source link : https://sbisoccer.com/2023/12/luna-mcguire-among-mls-players-deserving-january-usmnt-call-ups

Author : Larry Henry Jr

Publish date : 2023-12-27 23:55:56

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