FC Cincinnati's Luciano Acosta Named Landon Donovan MLS MVP

By: Neil Meyer

This afternoon the MLS announced that FC Cincinnati midfielder Luciano Acosta has been named the Landon Donovan MLS MVP. Luciano Acosta now becomes the first player in club history to achieve those honors since FC Cincinnati joined the MLS back in 2018. Acosta helped lead the Orange and blue to their first ever Supporters Shield in just his third season with the club. 

Acosta has been a vital piece for Pat Noon and FC Cincinnati since arriving in Cincinnati back in 2021. Acosta has racked up 34 goals in his three seasons with the orange and blue and has quickly became a fan favorite for many FC Cincinnati fans.  

Acosta led the team with 17 goals (2nd in MLS behind Denis Bouganga), 14 assists, as Acosta accompanied for 31 of the Orange and Blue's 56 goals this season. Acosta has anchored the Orange and Blue front line alongside Brandon Vazquez, Alvaro Barreal, Aaron Boupendza. 

Acosta was named a 2023 MLS All-Star alongside teammates Matt Miazga, and Alvaro Barreal. FC Cincinnati locked down Acosta through the 2026 season after agreeing to an extension back in September that holds a player option for the 2023 season.

The MLS announced that Acosta received 60% of the votes in the MLS Landon Donovan voting (50.96% Player Vote, 82.66% Media Vote, 47.5% Club Votes). 

Acosta is not done however as he looks to lead the Orange and Blue to their first ever MLS Cup as they prepare for their Eastern Conference match vs rival Columbus Crew that will take place This Saturday at 6pm at TQL Stadium.