Full Breakdown
San Diego FC Parts Ways with Hirving "Chucky" Lozano After One Season
1/10/2026, 12:19:56 PM
Decision to Move On from Lozano
San Diego FC has announced that it will not retain Hirving "Chucky" Lozano for the upcoming 2026 MLS season. Sporting director Tyler Heaps confirmed the decision, stating that it was made collectively by the club's leadership after careful consideration. Lozano, who joined San Diego FC from PSV Eindhoven for a reported $12 million, was the team's first designated player and a significant figure in its inaugural season. Heaps emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and that the club is now working with Lozano and his representatives to find a suitable solution for his future.
Performance and Challenges
During his time with San Diego FC, Lozano recorded nine goals and ten assists in 27 appearances. However, his season was marred by injuries and a notable locker-room incident that led to his benching late in the season. Reports indicated that Lozano had a verbal altercation with coaching staff after being substituted during a match against the Houston Dynamo. This incident contributed to a strained relationship between Lozano and the team, culminating in his exclusion from the starting lineup in crucial playoff matches.
Impact on the Team and Future Plans
Lozano's departure opens the door for San Diego FC to pursue another designated player, potentially a striker, to complement the team's attacking options. The club's focus is now on enhancing team chemistry and performance, as highlighted by coach Mikey Varas. He noted that the team had performed well even without Lozano in the roster during the latter part of the season. The club aims to build on its success from the previous season, where it finished atop the Western Conference standings and reached the conference final.
Implications for Lozano's Career
The uncertainty surrounding Lozano's club situation poses challenges for his preparations for the 2026 World Cup, where Mexico's opening match is scheduled against South Africa in five months. As a rotational starter for the national team, Lozano will need to secure a new club quickly to ensure he remains competitive for a spot in the World Cup squad.
Official Statements
Tyler Heaps stated, "We have communicated with Hirving and his representatives that he will not be part of the sporting plans moving forward. We believe that a sale is the best for all parties." He also mentioned that the decision was made with the club's long-term success in mind.
Verbatim Quotes
- “That was not a decision that was taken lightly.” — Tyler Heaps, Sporting Director, San Diego FC
- “We’re working with him and his representatives to find the best solution for him moving forward.” — Tyler Heaps, Sporting Director, San Diego FC
- “I didn’t react in the right way.” — Hirving Lozano, on his reaction to being substituted
San Diego FC is set to begin its competitive schedule with a Concacaf Champions Cup match against Liga MX's Pumas UNAM on February 3, followed by the MLS season opener against CF Montréal on February 21.
