Neymar’s MLS Move: A New Chapter in American Soccer? 
San Diego FC, the newest addition to Major League Soccer (MLS), marked a significant milestone by holding its inaugural training session at the Sharp HealthCare Performance Center in El Cajon. This event not only showcased the club’s commitment to professional soccer in the region but also provided a glimpse into the team’s future as they prepare for their debut season.
Key Takeaways
- San Diego FC held its first-ever training session on January 13, 2025.
- The session took place at the Sharp HealthCare Performance Center, a state-of-the-art facility.
- CEO Tom Penn expressed excitement about the transition from concept to reality.
- Head Coach Mikey Varas emphasized the energy and passion of the players during the session.
- The club is actively working on finalizing its roster ahead of the MLS debut.
A Historic Day for San Diego FC
The first training session was a momentous occasion for San Diego FC, as players and staff gathered to kick off their preseason. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the team took to the field, marking the transition from planning to action.
CEO Tom Penn shared his enthusiasm, stating, "There’s nothing like smelling the grass… when you can get out and smell the grass, the real grass, and be on it with players – that’s a shifting into a new gear." This sentiment resonated with everyone present, highlighting the significance of the day.
The Players and Coaching Staff
Head Coach Mikey Varas, who is leading a professional team for the first time, expressed his joy at seeing star winger Hirving “Chucky” Lozano and his teammates in action. "Football is our passion… just to hear the football rolling, and then being around the energy of players, seeing them do their thing, seeing them get to know each other, it’s kind of unbelievable," Varas remarked.
Roster Development
As the team focuses on training, Sporting Director Tyler Heaps is busy shaping the roster for the upcoming season. Two new players, Onni Valakari and Alejandro Alvarado Jr., were announced recently, with more signings expected soon. Heaps noted, "I think there’s still three to five players that we’ll bring in… we’re still probably missing a right winger, another midfielder, another right back, and probably another center back."
The Vision for Youth Development
San Diego FC’s training facility is not just for the first team; it also aims to foster youth talent. The club’s affiliation with the Right to Dream academy network emphasizes its commitment to youth development. The facility, located on land owned by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, is designed to be a hub for talent identification and development.
Heaps explained, "We want this to be the epicenter of football excellence and innovation in North America. This region has so much talent, a long history of that. Can we be the magnet that brings the best talent here?" This vision reflects the club’s ambition to contribute significantly to soccer in the region and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As San Diego FC prepares for its MLS debut against the LA Galaxy on February 23, the excitement surrounding the club continues to grow. The first training session was just the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating journey for the team and its supporters. With a focus on building a competitive roster and nurturing young talent, San Diego FC is poised to make a lasting impact in Major League Soccer.
