San Diego FC Midfielders 2025
San Diego FC has quickly established itself as a formidable force in Major League Soccer (MLS), thanks in large part to its dynamic and versatile midfield. The 2025 season sees the club boasting a blend of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and international talents who bring a wealth of experience and creativity to the pitch. This midfield unit is the engine that drives the team, combining defensive grit, playmaking brilliance, and goal-scoring prowess. Below, we take an in-depth look at each of San Diego FC’s midfielders, exploring their backgrounds, playing styles, and contributions to the team.
1. Alejandro Pozuelo
Alejandro Pozuelo, the Spanish maestro, is the creative heartbeat of San Diego FC’s midfield. Known for his exceptional vision and technical ability, Pozuelo joined the club in 2024 from Inter Miami CF for a transfer fee of $3.5 million. Born in Seville, Spain, Pozuelo began his professional career at Real Betis before making a name for himself in Belgium with Genk. His time in MLS has been marked by consistent performances, earning him a reputation as one of the league’s premier playmakers. Pozuelo’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game, coupled with his knack for delivering pinpoint passes, makes him indispensable. In 2025, he continues to be a key figure, orchestrating attacks and contributing crucial assists.
2. Eduard Atuesta
Colombian international Eduard Atuesta brings a blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair to San Diego FC. Acquired from Brazilian club Palmeiras in 2023 for a fee of $4 million, Atuesta has become a linchpin in the midfield. His journey began at Independiente Medellín in Colombia, where his performances caught the attention of MLS side LAFC. Atuesta’s time in Los Angeles was marked by success, including an MLS Cup victory. At San Diego FC, his ability to break up opposition play and transition the ball forward has been vital. Atuesta’s composure under pressure and his set-piece expertise add another dimension to the team’s play.
3. Caden Clark
Caden Clark, the young American prodigy, is one of the most exciting talents in San Diego FC’s squad. Born in Minnesota, Clark rose to prominence with the New York Red Bulls, where his performances earned him a move to RB Leipzig in Germany. However, seeking more playing time, Clark returned to MLS, joining San Diego FC in 2024 for a fee of $2.8 million. At just 22 years old, Clark has already shown maturity beyond his years, combining energy, technical skill, and a keen eye for goal. His versatility allows him to operate as a central midfielder or in a more advanced role, making him a valuable asset for the team.
4. Héctor Herrera
Mexican veteran Héctor Herrera brings a wealth of experience and leadership to San Diego FC’s midfield. Herrera joined the club in 2023 after a successful stint with the Houston Dynamo, where he was a Designated Player. His career began at Pachuca in Mexico, followed by a move to Porto in Portugal, where he established himself as one of Europe’s top midfielders. Herrera later played for Atlético Madrid in La Liga before making the switch to MLS. Known for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the midfield, Herrera has been a stabilizing presence for San Diego FC. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in guiding the team’s younger players.
5. Diego Luna
Diego Luna, another promising American talent, has been making waves since joining San Diego FC in 2023. Born in Sunnyvale, California, Luna began his professional career with El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship before moving to Real Salt Lake in MLS. His performances caught the attention of San Diego FC, who secured his services for a fee of $1.5 million. Luna’s dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to score from midfield have made him a fan favorite. At just 21 years old, Luna represents the future of American soccer and is expected to play a significant role in San Diego FC’s success in the coming years.
6. Jamiro Monteiro
Cape Verdean international Jamiro Monteiro adds a touch of flair and unpredictability to San Diego FC’s midfield. Monteiro joined the club in 2024 from the Philadelphia Union, where he had been a key player since 2019. His journey began in the Netherlands with Heracles Almelo, followed by stints in France and Hungary. Monteiro’s ability to play in multiple midfield roles, combined with his technical skill and tenacity, makes him a versatile option for the team. His experience in both European and MLS competitions has been invaluable, providing San Diego FC with a player who can adapt to different styles of play.
7. Jackson Yueill
Jackson Yueill, a reliable and hardworking midfielder, has been a consistent performer for San Diego FC since joining the club in 2023. Born in Bloomington, Minnesota, Yueill began his MLS career with the San Jose Earthquakes, where he developed into one of the league’s most underrated midfielders. Known for his passing accuracy and ability to control the tempo of the game, Yueill has been a steady presence in the heart of San Diego FC’s midfield. His work ethic and commitment to the team’s cause have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.
8. Andrés Perea
Colombian-American midfielder Andrés Perea brings energy and dynamism to San Diego FC’s midfield. Perea joined the club in 2024 from Orlando City SC, where he had been a regular starter since 2020. Born in Tampa, Florida, Perea began his career in Colombia with Atlético Nacional before moving to MLS. His ability to cover ground quickly, win duels, and contribute to both defense and attack has made him a valuable asset. Perea’s versatility allows him to play as a box-to-box midfielder or in a more defensive role, providing the team with tactical flexibility.
9. Matías Pellegrini
Argentine winger Matías Pellegrini, though primarily an attacking player, has been utilized in a midfield role by San Diego FC. Pellegrini joined the club in 2024 from Inter Miami CF, where he had been one of the team’s standout performers. His career began at Estudiantes de La Plata in Argentina, and he has also spent time on loan at Club Atlético Talleres. Pellegrini’s dribbling ability, creativity, and eye for goal make him a dangerous option in the final third. His adaptability and willingness to track back defensively have endeared him to the coaching staff.
10. Moses Nyeman
Liberian-American midfielder Moses Nyeman is one of the youngest players in San Diego FC’s squad. Born in Monrovia, Liberia, Nyeman moved to the United States at a young age and joined the D.C. United academy. He made his MLS debut at just 16 years old, becoming one of the league’s youngest-ever players. Nyeman joined San Diego FC in 2024, seeking a fresh start after limited opportunities at D.C. United. His technical ability, composure on the ball, and potential for growth make him an exciting prospect for the future.
11. Kelyn Rowe
Veteran midfielder Kelyn Rowe provides depth and experience to San Diego FC’s squad. Rowe joined the club in 2024 after a journeyman career that included stints with the New England Revolution, Sporting Kansas City, and Real Salt Lake. Born in Federal Way, Washington, Rowe has been a consistent performer in MLS for over a decade. His versatility allows him to play in multiple positions, including central midfield, wide midfield, and even full-back. Rowe’s leadership and professionalism have been invaluable in mentoring the team’s younger players.
12. Fidel Barajas
Mexican-American midfielder Fidel Barajas is one of the most exciting young talents in San Diego FC’s ranks. Born in Sacramento, California, Barajas joined the club in 2024 from the Charleston Battery in the USL Championship. At just 18 years old, Barajas has already shown glimpses of his potential, with his dribbling ability, vision, and work rate standing out. His development has been closely monitored by the coaching staff, and he is expected to play a more prominent role in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
San Diego FC’s midfield is a perfect blend of experience, youth, and international talent. Each player brings a unique set of skills and qualities that contribute to the team’s success. From the creative brilliance of Alejandro Pozuelo to the youthful exuberance of Diego Luna and Fidel Barajas, this midfield unit is capable of competing with the best in MLS. As the 2025 season unfolds, San Diego FC will rely heavily on these players to drive the team forward and achieve their ambitions. With such a talented and diverse group of midfielders, the future looks bright for this ambitious club.
