MLSsoccer.com, FutbolMLS.com and Univision Deportes have nominated Philadelphia Union midfielder Cristian Maidana for the Latino Del Año (Latino of the Year) award along with 31 other contenders.
This honor recognizes a MLS player with Latino or Hispanic heritage for his performance on the pitch during the 2015 season. Maidana is one of eight Argentineans nominated for the award, the country with the largest representation amongst the nominees. Colombia, Costa Rica and the U.S. each follow with four nominees.
Through the course of the season, Maidana made the difference for the Union, highlighted by the playmaker’s abilities. The midfielder ended the season with 15 assists, breaking the Union franchise record for assists in a single season and finishing second in the league behind Toronto FC’s Sebastian Giovinco.
During the victory against the Portland Timbers on July 11, Maidana assisted on all three Union goals.
WATCH Highlights From Union v Timbers Game
In addition to setting up 15 goals, three of which proved to be game winning, Maidana also found the back of the net with a stunning goal against New England Revolution on April 19.
WATCH Maidana’s Powerhouse Free Kick
Fans have until Sunday, Nov. 22. to vote for Maidana before the group stage of the voting ends.
After the group stages, the top two players from each of the eight groups will proceed to the Round of 16. The final winner will be announced on Friday, Dec. 4.
Maidana is in Group A along with FC Dallas’ Fabián Castillo, Montreal Impact’s Johan Venegas and Real Salt Lake’s Javier Morales.
