Daniel De la Cruz

Daniel de la Cruz came through LDU Quito's academy and was promoted to the first team in 2024, making his senior debut for the club that same year. He played 12 matches in Ecuador's Serie A that season, a run that included a red card, and provided one assist. LDU Quito won the domestic title in 2004, with de la Cruz part of the squad.

The following year brought a step up in competition. De la Cruz featured in Copa Libertadores fixtures against Flamengo and Táchira.

In July 2026, LDU Quito sent him on loan to Nacional in Portugal's Primeira Liga, with the move running through June 2027 and carrying an option to buy. He has made two appearances for his new club so far, including coming off the bench in a 2-2 draw against Santa Clara.

De la Cruz's development has also run through Ecuador's youth ranks. He was capped at under-20 level in 2023, taking part in both the South American Youth Championship and the U-20 World Cup, though he has yet to feature for the senior national team.

Earlier in his career, he was named to The Guardian's "Next Generation" list in 2021.