San Diego FC signs Mexico star Lozano as first Designated Player

The MLS expansion side has made a big splash in the transfer market

San Diego FC has made a major splash in the transfer market, signing Mexico star Hirving “Chucky” Lozano as the club’s first Designated Player.

Lozano will remain with his current club PSV for the rest of 2024, and will then link up with SDFC in January ahead of the club’s first MLS season in 2025.

The winger has signed a four-year contract through the end of the 2028 season, with two option years.

“We are excited to make history as we officially welcome ‘Chucky’ Lozano to San Diego FC as the club’s first Designated Player,” said SDFC CEO Tom Penn in a club release.

“’Chucky’ is a world-class talent, and we couldn’t think of a better star to be the face of our club and represent our region. We are thrilled to have him join our club as we look to build a team that will challenge for trophies. ‘Chucky’ is one of the most decorated Mexican internationals in the world, and we look forward to seeing him shine in San Diego and MLS in 2025.”

Lozano, 28, came up through Pachuca’s academy before becoming a star with the first team. He moved to PSV in 2017, helping the club win an Eredivisie title in 2017-18.

The winger then joined Italian power Napoli, where he won the 2019-20 Coppa Italia and Serie A in 2022-23. Lozano returned to PSV ahead of last season, helping the Dutch side to yet another Eredivisie title.

On the international level, Lozano made his senior debut for Mexico in 2016 and has since earned more than 70 caps. His goal against Germany at the 2018 World Cup announced his arrival on the international stage and helped El Tri to an upset win over the defending champions.

“It’s an honor to join San Diego FC as the club’s first Designated Player,” said Lozano. “It’s exciting to be part of history as we build a club that will compete for championships in MLS. In every country I have played, I always strive to leave a mark, and making an impact in San Diego and MLS is very important to me.”

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