Desperate to Prove Himself to Mauricio Pochettino, MLS Star Addresses Mental Health Struggles & Seeking Therapy- “People Are Afraid”

Mental health is a major issue that impacts all walks of life. A sad reality, especially in the beautiful game, where the pressures of performing at the top level—along with media scrutiny, fan expectations, and injury concerns- can take a mental toll on some. Diego Luna was unfortunately one player who fell victim to this situation. But luckily, he is ‘finding solutions’ to perform his best on the pitch while also preparing to make an impact on Mauricio Pochettino.

Who would have thought but one should know that behind the stardom and glamor-filled life, deep down lies the issues of mental health. “As a young player, you’re going through a lot of pressure, and a lot of things go on outside of soccer too,” began the Real Salt Lake forward on CBS Sports. “So to have your mental health be good is gonna allow you to perform on the field.”

Back in the day, mental health struggles weren’t a water cooler topic, but in the past few years, many have been finding the courage to speak up through various campaigns. For Luna, he has his own therapist. “Talking to a therapist, releasing your issues and stress, finding solutions and adding to your mental toolbox, and handling certain situations is something I’ve learned the past year and this year.”

Being able to grasp control over emotions is exactly Luna’s secret to success on the pitch. In fact, he wants more people to step up and vocally address and identify these issues. “There are people afraid of getting help or thinking they’re weak because they’re using therapy. No, this is all okay. These are things we need to do, it will help you in the long term,” he added.

That also saw the MLS star identify the future goals that he wishes to achieve by keeping himself fit and fine on both the physical and mental front. “Also, I’m leaning out a little bit. Just figuring out what’s the right weight for me, and this off-season, I’m trying to grind so I can come flying next year,” he concluded.

Looks like prioritizing mental health has paid off for Diego Luna, as he already feels a significant change within him. No wonder he plans to make an impression on Mauricio Pochettino as well!

Diego Luna sends a message to Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT

Diego Angel Luna is one lucky player to have a chance to either represent the USMNT or Mexico. “I am just continuing to work and waiting for my chance to get that call-up, and like I have been saying, to prove myself in those opportunities that I get,” said Luna, who played a key role in helping Real Salt Lake finish second in the Western Conference this season. 

When asked about any communication with the coaching staff from either side of the border, Luna revealed, “I have not had any conversations or phone calls with any of the US staff, I haven’t heard from either, no,” said Luna, who is only the second MLS player to achieve 20 goal contributions in a regular season before turning 21.

Notably, Luna has previously been called up to the United States under-14, under-17, and under-20 teams, and made his senior debut in January 2024. Since then, he declined the chance to be an alternate on the US men’s Olympic squad and has been contemplating a one-time switch to play for El Tri as well. Perhaps a call from Mauricio Pochettino may see him change his mind.