Football Season Guide

Only one MLS team conceded more goals than San Jose (69) last season, with the Quakes finishing bottom of the Western Conference. Matías Almeyda was fired back in April and San Jose Earthquakes II coach Álex Covelo was promoted but didn’t manage to help the team bounce back despite their significant improvement. San Jose parted ways with starter Eric Remedi, also offloading backup midfielder Ján Gregus, who failed to impress. Carlos Gruezo was brought in from Augsburg to boost the midfield, while Jonathan Mensah signed from Columbus and Daniel joined to provide James Marcinkowski with competition in goal. In fact, Daniel could start between the posts straightaway, while former Columbus captain Mensah will cover for centre-back Nathan, who suffered a serious injury. However, it is the arrival of USMNT assistant Luchi González in the dugout which could prove to be the Quakes’ brightest move in the off-season. San Jose have strength in attack, where Jeremy Ebobisse netted 17 of the team’s 52 goals last season. Along with Cade Cowell and Cristian Espinoza, they make up an attacking trident which causes headaches to defences due to their ability to beat defenders in one-on-one. Yet, their defence is expected to be their main weakness again despite Mensah’s arrival. They should be expected to improve at the back, but it is doubtful whether they have a playoff defence.