Few have arrived on the MLS scene with the goal scoring tenacity of one of D.C. United’s very own, Luciano Emílio. A professional since he was 16 years old, Emílio arrived in the Nation’s capital having already achieved an impressive scoring record across Honduras and Mexico. And the trend would continue with his new club.

Emílio signed for the Black-and-Red in January 2007 and soon would display his quality across the United States soccer landscape, winning the Golden Boot in his first year with the club, helping the Black-and-Red achieve the Supporters’ Shield, and win a US Open Cup in 2008.

His arrival earned him numerous deserved accolades including the first-ever MLS Newcomer of the Year, the MLS Golden Boot, and league MVP for his 2007 campaign. And in the following 2008 season, Emilio would lead the line as D.C. United claimed their second-ever U.S. Open Cup.

But it all started with the original signature and decision to play for D.C. United.