With just over six weeks until their inaugural Major League Soccer (MLS) season kicks off, San Diego FC are making waves as they edge toward securing one of the English Premier League’s all-time greats.
The expansion club, aiming to shake up the league from day one, is reportedly closing in on a groundbreaking deal to sign Manchester City’s midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne.
San Diego’s Grand Ambition: De Bruyne Deal Nearing Completion
According to The Athletic, the Southern California side is “closer than ever” to reaching an agreement with De Bruyne, a six-time Premier League winner and a pivotal figure in Manchester City’s historic treble-winning 2022-23 campaign. The Belgian playmaker’s contract with City runs out in June, and with his future in Manchester uncertain, San Diego FC is in prime position to swoop in.
De Bruyne has been on the club’s radar for months as they prepare to debut as MLS’s 30th franchise. The timing is perfect, with the 33-year-old set to become a free agent this summer. San Diego’s flexibility with their designated player slots gives them ample financial leeway to lure the Champions League winner stateside.
The Designated Player Advantage
San Diego FC’s ability to pursue high-caliber talent like De Bruyne stems from Major League Soccer’s designated player rule. Introduced in 2007, this provision—popularly dubbed the ‘Beckham Rule’—allows MLS teams to sign up to three players on salaries exceeding the league’s strict wage cap. David Beckham famously became the first designated player when he joined LA Galaxy, sparking a new era of star power in North American soccer.
With designated player slots open, San Diego’s pursuit of De Bruyne exemplifies their ambitious strategy to blend top-tier international talent with rising local stars. The addition of De Bruyne would not only enhance their midfield creativity but also elevate the entire league’s profile.
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De Bruyne’s Legacy at Manchester City
De Bruyne’s statistics at City are nothing short of legendary. Since his 2015 arrival from VfL Wolfsburg, he has made 400 appearances, netting 104 goals and providing 172 assists. His silverware haul includes six Premier League titles, one Champions League trophy, two FA Cups, and five EFL Cups. He’s also earned 107 caps for Belgium, cementing his status as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
A Star-Studded Roster Takes Shape
San Diego’s aggressive roster-building strategy reflects their intent to make an immediate impact. The club has already secured Mexican international Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano, Colombia U-20 prospect Tomás Ángel, and Northern Ireland’s seasoned defender Paddy McNair. Saying so, leading the technical charge is head coach Mikey Varas, known for his time as FC Dallas assistant and a stint with the USMNT.
The Countdown to Kickoff
The highly anticipated debut match for San Diego FC comes on Sunday, February 23, when they visit reigning MLS champions LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Western Conference clash, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT, promises to be a spectacle as the newcomers face a seasoned juggernaut.
If the De Bruyne deal materializes before kickoff, San Diego FC could roll into Carson with one of the most decorated players in soccer history leading their charge. His arrival would not only signal San Diego’s intent but also send ripples across MLS and the global football community.
Bold Vision, Brighter Future
Meanwhile, San Diego’s pursuit of Kevin De Bruyne embodies the ambition of a franchise determined to redefine success in MLS. Furthermore, the allure of a fresh challenge, a sun-soaked California lifestyle, and the chance to inspire a burgeoning fanbase could prove irresistible for the Belgian superstar.
The clock ticks down, and while nothing is official just yet, all signs point toward San Diego FC making a thunderous entrance onto the MLS stage. The prospect of seeing De Bruyne donning the navy and orange could mark the dawn of a new era, not just for the club but for soccer in America.