Luciano Acosta, the star who identifies with Messi
The Argentinian, star of FC Cincinnati, suffered the same growth issues as Leo Messi.
At 5 feet 3 inches, Acosta's career has been shaped by his stature: “I once went to a doctor who told me I wouldn't grow any taller. I try to make the most of other things.”
This limitation has allowed him to excel in other areas. He boasts impressive dribbling skills, excellent ball control, playmaking, game vision, and a fantastic striking ability.
His importance to the team is paramount. This season, he was the fourth highest scorer in the regular season, netting 17 goals and helping to secure the Supporters' Shield for the first time. Additionally, he also racked up 14 assists in 3,386 minutes.
Despite his outstanding performances, he isn't one of the fans’ favorites. Notably, his jersey isn’t even among the top 25 best-sellers in the MLS for 2023. In fact, it’s the first time this has happened since he’s been in the U.S.
He renewed his contract in September through December 2026, with an option for an additional year. What’s more, his market value has doubled since 2022, and is now estimated to be around six million dollars.
Interest from Europe. In 2019, he was on the radar of teams like Sevilla and PSG as his contract with DC United was ending, but he ultimately joined Atlas.
The potential deal with PSG was particularly dramatic, as he had even got to the point of choosing the number 18 jersey. He travelled immediately when his agent informed him of the situation. He had made the trip, but the deal fell through despite his eagerness to play in Europe.
Acosta was en route to a medical in Paris, but his club rejected the offer of $11.6 million, and the deal collapsed: “My world fell apart at that moment. It destroyed me psychologically.” The DC United executives demanded $13.1 million.
The Argentinian is close to obtaining American citizenship, which would allow him to play for the U.S. national team.
He spoke about it to The Athletic: “Obviously, I would accept a call-up from the USMNT if it came. It’s one of the reasons why I started the process to obtain citizenship.”
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