Luchi Gonzalez

Born in Hialeah, Florida, Gonzalez played four years of college soccer at Southern Methodist University, emerging in 2001, his senior season, to win the Hermann Trophy as college soccer's best player. He had 128 points during his career, including 48 goals and 32 assists.

Upon graduating, Gonzalez was drafted 6th overall in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft by the San Jose Earthquakes. Gonzalez failed to make a mark with the Earthquakes, however, playing only 47 minutes in his rookie season, and in the offseason, was acquired by the Columbus Crew. Gonzalez made the Crew roster but could not agree to a deal, and left the United States for Sweden, where he signed with second-division club Bodens BK. Gonzalez scored 8 goals and had 4 assists in his first season in Europe; along with Leighton O'Brien, Gonzalez was one of the most respected players in the squad.

He left Boden in late October 2003. Gonzalez joined Peruvian Sporting Cristal, where he was acquired to be a backup striker. Gonzalez appeared in the prestigious Copa Libertadores tournament, playing against the likes of Boca Juniors during his time. He came back to MLS in 2005, signing with the Colorado Rapids. Following the 2006 season, Gonzalez was waived by the Rapids, and signed for Miami FC in 2007.

Gonzalez was born in the United States to a Peruvian father and an American mother.[2] Gonzalez represented the United States U17s at the 1997 FIFA U-17 World Championship making 3 appearances in their group stage exit.[3][4][5]

In 2019, Gonzalez was named Head Coach of FC Dallas in MLS, earning a promotion from his academy director role. Gonzalez has adopted a style of play dubbed 'Luchi Ball' by fans, emphasizing possession and counter-pressing. [6] [7]