Real Salt Lake Forwards 2025
Introduction
Real Salt Lake (RSL) has long been a club that prides itself on developing talent and building a competitive roster capable of challenging for Major League Soccer (MLS) honors. As the 2025 season approaches, the club’s forward line is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and dynamic in the league. With a mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and strategic acquisitions, RSL’s attacking options promise to deliver goals, creativity, and relentless energy. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at each forward currently on the roster, exploring their backgrounds, strengths, and contributions to the team.
Cristian Arango
Cristian Arango, the Colombian striker, has been a revelation for Real Salt Lake since his arrival in 2023. Born in Medellín, Arango began his professional career in his homeland with Envigado before making a name for himself at Millonarios. His performances in Colombia earned him a move to Los Angeles FC in 2021, where he quickly became a fan favorite. RSL secured his services for a reported $4 million transfer fee, a move that has paid dividends.
Arango is a classic number nine, combining clinical finishing with intelligent movement off the ball. Standing at 6 feet tall, he is a constant aerial threat and excels at holding up play to bring teammates into the attack. In the 2024 season, he netted 18 goals and provided 7 assists, cementing his status as one of the league’s most consistent scorers. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations has made him a cornerstone of RSL’s offense.
Chicho Arango
Chicho Arango, no relation to Cristian, is another Colombian forward who has made a significant impact at Real Salt Lake. Born in Barranquilla, Chicho began his career at Atlético Junior before moving to Europe, where he spent time with clubs in Spain and Portugal. RSL signed him in 2024 for a fee of $3.5 million, adding another layer of firepower to their attack.
Chicho is a versatile forward who can operate as a central striker or drift wide to create chances. His technical ability and vision make him a creative force, while his composure in front of goal ensures he capitalizes on opportunities. In his debut season with RSL, he scored 12 goals and contributed 9 assists, forming a formidable partnership with Cristian Arango. His experience in European leagues has also brought a level of tactical awareness that benefits the entire team.
Anderson Julio
Ecuadorian forward Anderson Julio has been a key figure for Real Salt Lake since joining the club in 2021. Born in Guayaquil, Julio began his career at LDU Quito, where his pace and goal-scoring ability caught the attention of MLS scouts. RSL acquired him on a permanent transfer after an initial loan spell, paying a fee of $1.2 million.
Julio is known for his blistering speed and ability to stretch defenses. His direct running and willingness to take on defenders make him a constant threat on the counterattack. In the 2024 season, he scored 10 goals and added 6 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute both as a scorer and a provider. His work rate and defensive contributions also make him a valuable asset in high-pressing systems.
Diego Luna
Diego Luna, the young American forward, is one of the most exciting prospects in MLS. Born in Sunnyvale, California, Luna joined Real Salt Lake in 2022 from USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive for a fee of $250,000. Since then, he has developed into a key player for both club and country, representing the United States at various youth levels.
Luna is a technically gifted player with excellent dribbling skills and a keen eye for goal. Despite his relatively small stature, he uses his low center of gravity to evade defenders and create space for himself. In the 2024 season, he scored 8 goals and provided 10 assists, demonstrating his ability to influence games in multiple ways. His potential is limitless, and at just 21 years old, he is poised to become one of the league’s brightest stars.
Axel Kei
At just 17 years old, Axel Kei is already making waves at Real Salt Lake. Born in Ivory Coast, Kei moved to the United States at a young age and joined RSL’s academy in 2021. He made his first-team debut in 2023 and has since become the youngest goal-scorer in MLS history, breaking records and capturing the imagination of fans.
Kei is a physically imposing forward with a natural instinct for goal. His strength and aerial ability make him a nightmare for defenders, while his technical skills belie his age. In limited minutes during the 2024 season, he scored 5 goals and provided 2 assists, earning him a reputation as a super-sub. With his development carefully managed, Kei has the potential to become a cornerstone of RSL’s attack for years to come.
Rubio Rubin
Rubio Rubin, the American-Jamaican forward, brings a wealth of experience to Real Salt Lake. Born in Beaverton, Oregon, Rubin began his career in the youth ranks of FC Utrecht in the Netherlands before making his professional debut. He has also played for clubs in Mexico, Norway, and the United States, including stints with San Jose Earthquakes and Real Salt Lake, where he returned in 2023.
Rubin is a versatile attacker who can play across the front line. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to link play make him a valuable asset in RSL’s system. In the 2024 season, he scored 7 goals and added 5 assists, contributing to the team’s success in multiple competitions. His leadership and experience have also been instrumental in mentoring younger players like Axel Kei and Diego Luna.
Ilijah Paul
Ilijah Paul, another promising young forward, has been making steady progress at Real Salt Lake. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Paul joined RSL’s academy in 2020 and signed a homegrown contract in 2022. Since then, he has been gradually integrated into the first team, earning valuable minutes and gaining experience.
Paul is a dynamic forward with a knack for finding space in the box. His movement and finishing ability have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top strikers. In the 2024 season, he scored 4 goals in limited appearances, showing glimpses of his potential. As he continues to develop, Paul is expected to play a more prominent role in RSL’s attack.
Conclusion
Real Salt Lake’s forward line for the 2025 season is a blend of experience, youth, and international flair. Cristian Arango and Chicho Arango provide the goal-scoring prowess, while Anderson Julio and Diego Luna offer creativity and versatility. Axel Kei and Ilijah Paul represent the future, with their potential shining brightly in every appearance. Rubio Rubin’s experience and leadership tie it all together, creating a well-rounded and formidable attacking unit.
As RSL aims to compete for silverware in 2025, the contributions of these forwards will be crucial. Their unique skills and collective chemistry make them one of the most exciting attacking groups in MLS. With a mix of proven performers and emerging talents, the future looks bright for Real Salt Lake and their fans.