MLS: 3 players set to have breakout season in 2020

1. Luis Diaz

Luis Diaz joined Columbus from Costa Rican side Herediano last summer and made 13 appearances during the 2019 MLS season. At only 21 years old, he was able to show some of his highlights during his shortened 2019 season, handing Romario Williams the equalizing assist on his debut for Columbus against Chicago.

However, he didn’t shine much the remainder of the season, notching just two goals and five assists on the year. The talent was clear, but he needed to put everything together to become a consistent threat.

This season, he looks far more comfortable playing further wide than last season. Caleb Porter strengthened central areas with the introductions of Lucas Zelarayan and Darlington Nagbe. With Diaz on a Young Designated Player contract, there is a degree of expectation on his shoulders, but a stronger foundation in midfield will provide him with more offensive opportunities.

The Crew looked dangerous in their first two matches, beating New York City FC and holding Seattle to a draw. With one assist already, Diaz could be the perfect fit to cross balls into Gyasi Zardes. And if he is, both he and the Crew are ready to take the jump into the elite stratosphere.