DIEGO FAGUNDEZ

Forward, New England Revolution

Heritage: Uruguayan

Age: 21

 

Recognitions:                           

• Major League Soccer 24 under 24

• Major League Soccer Player of the Week, 2013

• Youngest Player to play in 100 MLS games in League History

• Youngest Player to score 25 goals in MLS history

• Adidas Interregional All-Star, 2007-2008

 

By: Frank Morris and Elvis Jocol Lara

                                                                       

When Diego Fagundez was just 15 years old, he signed a professional soccer contract with the New England Revolution. He calls it one of his greatest feats in life. Now the Revs forward can add being named one of Boston’s Latino 30 Under 30 to his list of accomplishments.

“I don’t think people realize what young generations are doing nowadays. For me, I’m playing professional soccer, and there’s other people doing other things, and we’re giving all our best so people can look up to us,” the 21-year-old said. “We all come from different places; everybody has a different story in their background. My story is a lot different from everybody else’s and that’s the way it works and that’s what’s awesome about it.”

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Fagundez moved with his family to Leominster, Mass., when he was 5 years old. He recalls watching the Revolution from the stands at that young age.

Then after starring for the Revolution Academy, he became the first “homegrown player” in Revolution history when he signed on Nov. 15, 2010. He would go on to become the youngest player in club history to appear in a match (at age 16). Two years later, was named Revolution MVP.

“Everytime I’m out there, I always think, ‘Wow, I used to be in those stands and now I’m actually playing for these guys.’ So I have to give it my all and make sure [the fans] keep coming to the games and supporting me as much as possible,” he said.

Last year, Fagundez became the youngest player in Major League Soccer history to make 100 appearances and score 25 goals. His career totals include six MLS seasons, 34 goals, 24 assists, and 152 appearances.

“There’s a lot of accomplishments you can do during soccer. The goals and stuff — that’s just something fun that you can do, but I’d rather accomplish winning a cup with my team, enjoying it,” he said.