In a calculated effort to strengthen their roster ahead of their debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2025, San Diego FC has made headlines by trading two draft picks. The team aims to secure a “starting center back” as well as a potential Designated Player (DP) during the impending winter transfer window. This strategic maneuver was highlighted by head coach Mikey Varas, who expressed excitement about investing the acquired resources into pivotal positions that will form the backbone of the team. The trades involved Hosei Kijima and Thiago Andrade, which have yielded substantial financial support in the form of $400,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) and conditional GAM up to $250,000.
San Diego FC’s approach signifies their commitment to constructing a competitive squad from the outset. Sporting director Tyler Heaps has signaled that the organization is actively pursuing a high-impact DP signing, a move Eastern Conference clubs will be monitoring closely. Heaps remarked on the negotiations involved, underscoring the complexity and need for securing the right talent at an acceptable price. San Diego’s ambitions are further fueled by speculation linking seasoned Spanish defender Sergio Ramos to the club alongside Colombian international Andrés Reyes, who has recently come from the New York Red Bulls. These moves clearly illustrate San Diego FC’s desire to infuse their lineup with both experience and talent.
During the recent expansion draft, San Diego FC seized the opportunity to bolster their ranks by selecting promising young players like Heine Gikling Bruseth from Orlando City, Hamady Diop from Charlotte FC, and Jasper Löffelsend from the Colorado Rapids. Building around key figures—most notably Mexican international Hirving “Chucky” Lozano—the team is taking calculated steps to assemble a diverse and dynamic roster that can compete right out of the gate.
A crucial aspect of San Diego FC’s identity is the diverse ownership group. This unique assembly includes international soccer star Juan Mata, who recently joined as a stakeholder, thus becoming the first active player to invest in an MLS franchise. The ownership also boasts figures like Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, and MLB player Manny Machado, reflecting a wide-ranging commitment to the local community and sport. The involvement of such prominent figures not only elevates the team’s profile but also enhances their prospects for success.
San Diego FC is set to make their MLS debut in an exciting match against the LA Galaxy on the weekend of February 22-23, 2025. Fans are particularly eager for the home opener scheduled for March 1 against St. Louis City SC at Snapdragon Stadium. The upcoming reveal of the team’s inaugural kits further heightens anticipation among supporters, marking a historical moment for this new franchise. As San Diego FC gears up for their entry into MLS, the combination of strategic player acquisitions and community engagement sets an intriguing stage for their future.