Chivas, the Liga MX side, has recently made a groundbreaking move in the world of soccer transfers. They have reached a deal with the San Jose Earthquakes for the acquisition of United States winger, Cade Cowell. This transfer marks an important milestone for both Chivas and Cowell himself. With Chivas typically having a roster consisting solely of domestic players, the addition of an American talent like Cowell is a departure from their traditional approach.
Born and raised in California, Cowell has recently gained eligibility to play for Chivas after receiving his Mexican passport in early January. Despite his American roots, Cowell’s decision to join Chivas aligns with his Mexican heritage. This young talent had the option to represent Mexico at the international level but ultimately chose to wear the colors of the United States. His debut with the senior national team took place in December of 2021, and since then, he has made eight appearances and scored one goal for his country.
Cowell’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the MLS, where he made his professional debut in 2020 with the San Jose Earthquakes. In his time with the club, he amassed a total of 114 appearances and netted an impressive 10 goals. A standout performance that earned him a spot in the 2021 MLS All-Star team. Cowell’s younger brother, Chance, has also shown promise in the youth national team setups of both the United States and Mexico, making the Cowell brothers a force to be reckoned with.
Chivas has a long history of strict adherence to domestic players on their roster, but recent years have seen a slight shift in their approach. While the club still values Mexican talent, they have recognized the potential and value in incorporating players with international backgrounds. Former Chivas striker Santiago Ormeño represented Peru at the international level while still under contract with the club in 2022, showcasing a willingness to embrace diversity.
Furthermore, Chivas is also in talks for the return of Javier Hernandez, Mexico’s all-time leading goalscorer. This potential signing adds yet another dimension to the changing landscape of Chivas. With manager Veljko Paunovic leaving the club in December, Chivas turned to former Boca Juniors and Real Madrid midfielder Fernando Gago to lead the team. These changes signal a new era for Chivas, with a fresh approach both on and off the field.
As Chivas prepares for the upcoming 2024 Clausura season, the arrival of Cade Cowell has undoubtedly injected a sense of excitement and optimism into the club and its supporters. With a promising American talent joining their ranks, Chivas looks to make a statement in the Liga MX. Their home opener against Santos Laguna on January 13th marks the beginning of a new chapter.
Chivas’ acquisition of Cade Cowell showcases their willingness to embrace international talent, breaking away from their traditional roster construction. Cowell’s decision to represent the United States adds another layer to this unique transfer. With a changing landscape and a talented squad, Chivas aims to make an impact in the upcoming Liga MX season. The future looks bright for both the club and their new American star.