ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United announced on Tuesday the club had signed Albuquerque native and United Academy product Cristian Nava to a contract extension through the conclusion of the 2024 USL Championship season.

Nava, who was United’s first player to graduate from the club’s Academy to the professional ranks in 2021, continued his progression as a player this past season. In 2022 he recorded his first two professional goals, notched a pair of assists and made his first 10 starts for the club in league play as part of 16 overall appearances.

The 19-year-old grew up in Albuquerque, and attended Albuquerque High School before joining the United Academy in 2021. In his first season with the group, Nava sone, earning the Golden Ball at the edition of the USL Academy League Playoffs to close the year. On August 21, 2021, he joined the professional ranks, and this past May scored his first goal for the club during a victory against Phoenix Riding FC.

Nava scored his second pro goal in United’s final regular season match of 2022, against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. He has currently made 21 appearances in the USL Championship over his career.