Kellyn Kai Acosta (born July 24, 1995) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire FC and the United States national team. Known for his versatility, defensive work rate, and passing ability, Acosta has been a consistent presence in MLS and on the international stage.
Early Life and Youth Career
Born in Plano, Texas, Acosta began his youth career with the Andromeda FC soccer club. He joined the FC Dallas Academy in 2010, where he quickly progressed through the ranks, demonstrating significant potential. During his time in the academy, he also represented the United States at various youth levels.Club Career
FC Dallas
Acosta signed his first professional contract as a Homegrown Player with FC Dallas on July 12, 2012, at the age of 16, making him the sixth Homegrown Player in the club's history. He made his MLS debut on August 3, 2013, against Seattle Sounders FC. Over his time with FC Dallas, Acosta developed into a key central midfielder, renowned for his ability to break up play, distribute the ball, and occasionally contribute with long-range shots. He won the 2016 U.S. Open Cup and the MLS Supporters' Shield with the club.Colorado Rapids
On July 23, 2018, Acosta was traded to the Colorado Rapids in exchange for Dominique Badji and an international roster slot. He quickly established himself as a starter for the Rapids, providing stability in midfield and becoming a leader on the field. He remained with the club for over three seasons, making significant contributions despite the team's varying fortunes.Los Angeles FC
Acosta was traded to Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on January 14, 2022, in exchange for $1.5 million in General Allocation Money. His move to LAFC saw him play a crucial role in the team's highly successful 2022 season, where he helped them win both the MLS Supporters' Shield and the MLS Cup, scoring a key goal in the MLS Cup final. He continued to be a vital part of LAFC's midfield during his tenure.Chicago Fire FC
On February 29, 2024, Acosta joined Chicago Fire FC after his contract with LAFC expired.International Career
Acosta has represented the United States at multiple youth levels, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2011 and the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2013 and 2015.He made his senior debut for the United States national team on January 31, 2016, in a friendly match against Iceland. He quickly became a regular call-up, valued for his tactical discipline and versatility. Acosta was a member of the United States squad that won the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2017 and 2021, and the CONCACAF Nations League in 2020 and 2023. He played a significant role in the USMNT's qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and was included in the final 26-man roster for the tournament in Qatar.
Playing Style
Acosta is primarily a central midfielder who can operate as a deep-lying playmaker or a box-to-box midfielder. He is known for his defensive prowess, including his tackling and ability to intercept passes. Offensively, he possesses a strong passing range and a powerful shot from distance. His work rate, leadership, and versatility to play across the midfield have made him a valuable asset for both club and country.Honors
Club
- FC Dallas
- U.S. Open Cup: 2016
- MLS Supporters' Shield: 2016
- Los Angeles FC
- MLS Cup: 2022
- MLS Supporters' Shield: 2022
International
- United States
- CONCACAF Gold Cup: 2017, 2021
- CONCACAF Nations League: 2019–20, 2022–23