Diego Nicolás de la Cruz Arcosa was born on 1 June 1997 in Montevideo. Liverpool Montevideo developed his agility, low centre of gravity and competitive edge.
River Plate signed him in 2017, and Marcelo Gallardo turned him into one of South America's most complete midfielders. He won major trophies, including the Copa Libertadores.
Flamengo signed him in 2024. Injuries have complicated continuity, but when fit he gives Flamengo ball progression, combinations and aggressive counter-pressing.
For Uruguay he debuted in 2020 and played through the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa América cycles. He offers a smaller, more elusive midfield profile.
Around 1.67 m and right-footed, De la Cruz is a central or attacking midfielder with quick feet. He resembles a combative Pablo Aimar with fully Uruguayan pressing intensity.