San Diego FC Defenders 2025
San Diego FC has quickly established itself as a formidable force in Major League Soccer (MLS), thanks in no small part to its robust defensive lineup. The 2025 season sees the club boasting a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each bringing their unique skills and experiences to the pitch. This post delves into the current roster of San Diego FC defenders, providing an in-depth look at their backgrounds, achievements, and contributions to the team.
1. John Brooks
John Brooks, a towering figure in the heart of San Diego FC‘s defense, hails from the United States. Born in Berlin, Germany, to an American serviceman father and a German mother, Brooks has dual nationality but has chosen to represent the United States internationally. Standing at 6’4″, his physical presence is a significant asset in both defensive and offensive set-pieces. Brooks joined San Diego FC in 2023 from VfL Wolfsburg for a transfer fee of $2.5 million. His experience in the Bundesliga, where he made over 200 appearances, has been invaluable. Known for his composure on the ball and exceptional reading of the game, Brooks has become a linchpin in San Diego’s backline. His ability to play out from the back and his leadership qualities have earned him the captain’s armband.
2. Miles Robinson
Miles Robinson, another American stalwart, has been a consistent performer for San Diego FC since his arrival in 2024. Born in Arlington, Massachusetts, Robinson’s journey to professional soccer began at Syracuse University, where he honed his skills before being drafted by Atlanta United in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft. After a successful stint with Atlanta, including an MLS Cup victory in 2018, Robinson moved to San Diego FC for a fee of $1.8 million. Renowned for his athleticism and versatility, Robinson can play both center-back and right-back with equal proficiency. His pace and strength make him a formidable opponent for any forward, and his ability to recover quickly has bailed San Diego out of numerous precarious situations. Off the field, Robinson is known for his community involvement, often participating in local youth soccer clinics.
3. Diego Palacios
Diego Palacios, the Ecuadorian left-back, brings a blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair to San Diego FC. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Palacios began his professional career with Independiente del Valle before moving to Willem II in the Netherlands. His performances in the Eredivisie caught the eye of San Diego FC, who secured his services in 2023 for a transfer fee of $1.2 million. Palacios is known for his overlapping runs and precise crosses, which have resulted in several assists for the team. Defensively, his tenacity and ability to read the game have made him a reliable presence on the left flank. Palacios’s international experience, including appearances for the Ecuadorian national team, has further bolstered his reputation as one of the top full-backs in MLS.
4. Julian Araujo
Julian Araujo, a Mexican-American right-back, has been a revelation for San Diego FC since joining from Barcelona B in 2024. Born in Lompoc, California, Araujo’s journey to professional soccer is a testament to his determination and skill. After starting his career with the LA Galaxy, where he made over 100 appearances, Araujo moved to Barcelona B to further develop his game. San Diego FC acquired him for a fee of $1.5 million, and he has since become a fan favorite. Araujo’s pace, dribbling ability, and defensive acumen make him a dual threat on the right flank. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and his knack for making crucial tackles have been instrumental in San Diego’s defensive success. Araujo’s international career with the Mexican national team has also seen him gain valuable experience on the global stage.
5. Walker Zimmerman
Walker Zimmerman, a seasoned MLS veteran, joined San Diego FC in 2025 from Nashville SC for a fee of $1.3 million. Born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Zimmerman’s career has been marked by consistent performances and leadership. After starting his professional journey with FC Dallas, Zimmerman moved to Nashville SC, where he became a cornerstone of their defense. His arrival at San Diego FC has brought a wealth of experience and stability to the backline. Zimmerman’s aerial prowess and ability to organize the defense have been crucial in maintaining San Diego’s defensive solidity. Known for his no-nonsense approach and physicality, Zimmerman has also contributed to the team’s offensive set-pieces, scoring several crucial goals. His leadership qualities have made him a vital presence both on and off the pitch.
6. Auston Trusty
Auston Trusty, another American defender, joined San Diego FC in 2024 from Arsenal for a fee of $1 million. Born in Media, Pennsylvania, Trusty’s journey to professional soccer began with the Philadelphia Union, where he made his MLS debut. His performances earned him a move to Arsenal, where he spent time on loan at various clubs before settling at San Diego FC. Trusty’s versatility allows him to play both center-back and left-back, providing the team with valuable flexibility. His technical skills, combined with his physical attributes, make him a well-rounded defender. Trusty’s ability to play out from the back and his composure under pressure have been key to San Diego’s build-up play. His international experience with the United States national team has further enhanced his reputation as a reliable defender.
7. Alistair Johnston
Alistair Johnston, the Canadian right-back, joined San Diego FC in 2023 from CF Montréal for a fee of $1.1 million. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Johnston’s rise to prominence has been swift. After a successful college career at Wake Forest University, Johnston was drafted by Nashville SC before moving to CF Montréal. His performances in MLS caught the attention of San Diego FC, who secured his services to bolster their defensive options. Johnston’s energy, work rate, and defensive discipline have made him a key player for San Diego. His ability to contribute offensively, with overlapping runs and accurate crosses, adds an extra dimension to the team’s play. Johnston’s international experience with the Canadian national team, including appearances in the FIFA World Cup, has further solidified his status as one of the top full-backs in the league.
8. Aaron Long
Aaron Long, a veteran American center-back, joined San Diego FC in 2024 from the New York Red Bulls for a fee of $900,000. Born in Oak Hills, California, Long’s journey to professional soccer is a story of perseverance. After starting his career with the Portland Timbers, Long moved to the New York Red Bulls, where he became a mainstay in their defense. His leadership and defensive prowess earned him a move to San Diego FC, where he has continued to excel. Long’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has been vital in maintaining San Diego’s defensive record. His experience and calmness under pressure have made him a reliable presence in the backline. Long’s international career with the United States national team has also seen him gain valuable experience on the global stage.
9. Kai Wagner
Kai Wagner, the German left-back, joined San Diego FC in 2023 from the Philadelphia Union for a fee of $1.4 million. Born in Geinsheim, Germany, Wagner’s journey to professional soccer began with FC Augsburg before moving to the Philadelphia Union. His performances in MLS caught the attention of San Diego FC, who secured his services to strengthen their defensive options. Wagner’s technical skills, combined with his defensive discipline, make him a well-rounded full-back. His ability to deliver accurate crosses and his composure on the ball have been key to San Diego’s build-up play. Wagner’s international experience with the German U-21 national team has further enhanced his reputation as a reliable defender.
10. Alex Roldan
Alex Roldan, the Salvadoran right-back, joined San Diego FC in 2024 from the Seattle Sounders for a fee of $800,000. Born in Artesia, California, Roldan’s journey to professional soccer began with the Seattle Sounders, where he made over 100 appearances. His performances in MLS caught the attention of San Diego FC, who secured his services to bolster their defensive options. Roldan’s energy, work rate, and defensive discipline have made him a key player for San Diego. His ability to contribute offensively, with overlapping runs and accurate crosses, adds an extra dimension to the team’s play. Roldan’s international experience with the Salvadoran national team has further solidified his status as one of the top full-backs in the league.
Conclusion
San Diego FC’s defensive lineup for the 2025 season is a blend of experience, versatility, and youthful exuberance. Each defender brings a unique set of skills and experiences that have contributed to the team’s success. From the towering presence of John Brooks to the energetic runs of Julian Araujo, San Diego’s backline is well-equipped to handle the challenges of MLS. As the season progresses, the contributions of these defenders will be crucial in San Diego FC’s quest for silverware. With such a talented and dedicated group of players, the future looks bright for San Diego FC’s defense.
