Rising Stars: Freeman, Luna, Vargas Named Finalists for 2025 MLS Young Player of the Year

The future of American soccer is very bright — and this year’s MLS Young Player of the Year finalists are proof. Orlando City’s Alex Freeman, Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna and Seattle Sounders’ Obed Vargas have all been recognized for standout seasons that blended raw talent, maturity and serious clutch moments.

These three aren’t just prospects anymore, they’re the now.

Alex Freeman — Orlando’s Breakout Fullback

At just 20 years old, Freeman has become one of MLS’s most electric young defenders. Splitting time between right back and wingback, he’s posted 3 goals and 6 assists this season — career highs — while helping Orlando lock down a playoff finish in the East.

Freeman’s mix of pace, physicality and relentless energy down the flank has made him a nightmare for wingers and a favorite among fans. His ability to overlap and create width has been key to Orlando’s attack, and his defensive recovery runs have earned him respect league-wide.

His standout performances for the Lions earned him his first call-up to the U.S. men's national team in June. He played a major role in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup as a starter for Marucio Pochettino's squad, as the team placed second in the tournament. Since then, Freeman has made a total of 11 appearances for the USMNT.

Diego Luna — RSL’s Creative Engine

If there’s one word to describe Luna, it’s sauce. The 21-year-old midfielder has become the face of Real Salt Lake’s youth revolution, finishing the regular season with 8 goals and 9 assists — both career bests.

Luna’s flair, low center of gravity and fearless creativity make him a highlight reel waiting to happen. But it’s not all flash — his work rate and tactical growth have transformed him into a complete No. 10, driving RSL to a playoff spot.

Just like Freeman, Luna also earned his first call-up to the USMNT this year. He's a strong consideration to be a starter under Pochettino and has already logged three goals and four assists in 11 appearances. Luna’s confidence and swagger have made him a fan favorite — and a symbol of MLS’s growing young star power.

Obed Vargas — Seattle’s Midfield Maestro

While he’s only 19, Vargas plays like a seasoned pro. The Sounders midfielder has been a rock in Brian Schmetzer’s system, leading the team in interceptions and ranking among the top five in passing accuracy across MLS midfielders under 21.

Vargas’s calmness in possession and elite positioning have made him Seattle’s midfield anchor. He doesn’t always show up on the scoresheet — with 2 goals and 4 assists this season — but his influence is everywhere. When Seattle needs control, they turn to Vargas.

Vargas is a dual-national player who was born in Alaska to Mexican parents. He filed a one-time switch from FIFA in October 2024 to cement his allegiance with the Mexico national team. Vargas made his senior debut on Oct. 15 vs. the U.S. Most recently, the phenom was part of the Mexican midfield that reached the quarterfinals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

What’s Next

Freeman, Luna and Vargas have all proven that development isn’t just about potential — it’s about impact now. The trio will have to wait until later this month to see who will win the 2025 MLS Young Player of the Year award.

If this MLS season was any indication, it's that the next era of North American soccer is going to be different.