New Mexico United is proud to announce that Albuquerque-native and United Academy product Cristian Nava has signed a contract extension that will see him continue with the club through at least the end of the 2024 season. Nava, who was United’s first-ever player to complete the Path to Pro – beginning with the club’s academy program, earning an academy contract, and then a full first team contract – has seen his stock continue to rise; starting several times for the first team, and scoring his first two goals last season.
Nava grew up in Albuquerque, and attended Albuquerque High School before joining the United Academy in 2021. In his first season with the group, Nava was dominant, earning the Golden Ball at first USL Academy playoffs. In 2021, he also became the first United player to sign an academy contract, allowing him to play with the first team and the United Academy simultaneously. On May 25th, 2022, Nava scored his first goal as a member of the first team – a slot home of a through ball – en route to a 7-0 victory over Phoenix Rising.
Nava scored his second pro goal in United’s final regular season match of 2022, against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. He ended his first pro season with two goals and two assists.
