San Diego FC is gearing up for its highly anticipated debut in MLS, and the excitement surrounding the club continues to grow.
With preseason training in full swing, we are eager to see how the league’s newest expansion team will perform on the field.
Adding to the buzz, San Diego FC recently welcomed a special guest to training camp—none other than Mexican boxing icon Canelo Álvarez.
The multiple-time world champion made an appearance to show his support and share his high hopes for the club’s future in MLS.
Canelo’s visit only adds to the momentum San Diego FC has built over the past year. From securing top-tier talent to making waves in the transfer market, the club is making it clear that they mean business.
Canelo Álvarez backs San Diego FC for MLS success
During his visit, Canelo Álvarez took a moment to address fans and express his enthusiasm for San Diego FC’s journey on Instagram.
The four-division world champion sent a message of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of fan support in the club’s inaugural season: “Hello to all the fans, especially the ones here in San Diego. I’m here wishing them all the success in the world to the team here in San Diego, and I hope you’re here supporting 100%.
“Let them be the most important team in MLS.”
San Diego FC, founded in May 2023, has quickly gained a strong following.
The team sold over 5,000 season tickets within 24 hours of its announcement, proving that local fans are ready to rally behind their new club.
Beyond fan support, San Diego FC’s ownership group boasts some notable names, midfielder Juan Mata joined the ownership group in November 2024, making history as the first active footballer to hold an equity stake in an MLS team.
Additionally, San Diego FC has recently made some new signings, with the new players sharing their thoughts on joining the team.
During their first statements, the players expressed their excitement about the project and their ambitions for the season.
San Diego FC’s big moves on and off the field
San Diego FC isn’t just making headlines off the field—the club has been active in the transfer market as well.
In June 2024, they signed Mexican international Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano as their first Designated Player, a move that sent a strong message about their competitive aspirations.
Lozano was later joined by former Brighton & Hove Albion winger Anders Dreyer, further strengthening the squad.
The club also appointed Mikey Varas as its first-ever head coach. Varas, known for leading the U.S. U-20 team to Olympic qualification in 2022, brings experience from both the USMNT and MLS.
With their MLS debut fast approaching, San Diego FC is set to kick off its inaugural season with a challenging away match against reigning champions LA Galaxy.
