San Jose Earthquakes Midfielders 2024/25
The San Jose Earthquakes have long been a team that prides itself on a dynamic and hardworking midfield. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club has assembled a diverse group of midfielders who bring a mix of experience, youth, and international flair to the pitch. This season’s midfield roster is a blend of homegrown talent, seasoned veterans, and exciting new acquisitions. Each player brings a unique skill set that contributes to the team’s overall strategy and style of play. Below, we take an in-depth look at the midfielders who will be pivotal to the Earthquakes’ success in the upcoming campaign.
Jackson Yueill
Jackson Yueill, a proud product of the United States, has been a cornerstone of the San Jose Earthquakes midfield for several seasons. Born in Bloomington, Minnesota, Yueill joined the Earthquakes in 2017 after being selected sixth overall in the MLS SuperDraft. His journey to professional soccer began at UCLA, where he honed his skills as a versatile and intelligent midfielder. Known for his exceptional passing range and ability to control the tempo of the game, Yueill has become a fan favorite at PayPal Park.
Yueill’s vision on the field is unparalleled, often dictating play with his precise through balls and ability to switch the point of attack. Standing at 5’10”, he may not be the most physically imposing player, but his technical prowess and soccer IQ more than make up for it. Over the years, he has developed into a leader on the pitch, earning the captain’s armband on multiple occasions. His loyalty to the Earthquakes is evident, as he has remained with the club despite interest from other MLS teams and abroad. With over 150 appearances for San Jose, Yueill’s experience and consistency will be vital in the 2024/25 season.
Carlos Gruezo
Carlos Gruezo, an Ecuadorian international, brings a wealth of experience and tenacity to the Earthquakes’ midfield. Born in Santo Domingo, Ecuador, Gruezo began his professional career at Independiente del Valle before making the leap to European football with VfB Stuttgart in 2014. His time in the Bundesliga showcased his ability to compete at the highest level, and he later joined FC Augsburg, where he continued to impress with his defensive midfield capabilities.
Gruezo’s journey to San Jose began in 2019 when he signed with FC Dallas, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s top defensive midfielders. His move to the Earthquakes in 2023 was met with great anticipation, and he has since lived up to expectations. Known for his relentless work rate, tackling ability, and composure under pressure, Gruezo is the engine that drives the team’s defensive efforts in midfield. His international experience, including appearances for Ecuador in the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers, adds a layer of maturity and leadership to the squad. At 28 years old, Gruezo is in the prime of his career and will be a key figure for San Jose in the upcoming season.
Cristian Espinoza
Cristian Espinoza, an Argentine winger with a knack for creating chances, has been a revelation for the San Jose Earthquakes since joining the club in 2019. Born in Coronel Brandsen, Argentina, Espinoza began his career at Huracán before making the move to Europe, where he played for Villarreal and Boca Juniors. His time in Spain and Argentina helped him develop into a technically gifted and tactically astute player, capable of playing on either flank or as an attacking midfielder.
Espinoza’s arrival in San Jose marked a turning point for the club’s attacking options. His blistering pace, dribbling skills, and pinpoint crosses have made him one of the most dangerous wingers in MLS. In the 2023 season, he recorded double-digit assists, solidifying his reputation as a creative force. Beyond his offensive contributions, Espinoza is also known for his work ethic and willingness to track back defensively. His ability to deliver in big moments has endeared him to the Earthquakes faithful, and at 29 years old, he remains a vital component of the team’s midfield.
Jamiro Monteiro
Jamiro Monteiro, a Cape Verdean international, is another key figure in the Earthquakes’ midfield. Born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Monteiro began his career in the Dutch Eredivisie with Heracles Almelo before moving to FC Metz in France. His time in Europe helped him develop a well-rounded skill set, combining technical ability with physicality and tactical awareness. Monteiro’s journey to MLS began in 2019 when he joined the Philadelphia Union, where he quickly became a fan favorite.
Monteiro’s move to San Jose in 2022 was a significant coup for the Earthquakes. His ability to play as a box-to-box midfielder or in a more advanced role gives the team flexibility in its tactical approach. Known for his quick feet, vision, and ability to score from distance, Monteiro is a constant threat in the final third. His international experience with Cape Verde, including appearances in the Africa Cup of Nations, adds a layer of grit and determination to his game. At 30 years old, Monteiro’s experience and versatility make him an invaluable asset for the Earthquakes.
Niko Tsakiris
Niko Tsakiris, a rising star in American soccer, represents the future of the San Jose Earthquakes’ midfield. Born in Saratoga, California, Tsakiris joined the Earthquakes’ academy at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks. His performances for the club’s youth teams earned him a spot in the first team, and he made his MLS debut in 2022 at just 17 years old. Tsakiris’ rapid development has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top young talents.
Tsakiris is a technically gifted midfielder with excellent ball control and passing ability. His ability to read the game and make intelligent runs has already made him a valuable contributor to the team. Despite his young age, Tsakiris plays with a maturity beyond his years, often dictating play and creating opportunities for his teammates. His potential has not gone unnoticed, and he has already represented the United States at the youth international level. As he continues to grow and develop, Tsakiris is poised to become a cornerstone of the Earthquakes’ midfield for years to come.
Michael Baldisimo
Michael Baldisimo, a Canadian midfielder, adds depth and versatility to the Earthquakes’ midfield. Born in Burnaby, British Columbia, Baldisimo began his career with the Vancouver Whitecaps, where he progressed through the academy and made his MLS debut in 2018. His time in Vancouver showcased his ability to play as a deep-lying playmaker, with a focus on distributing the ball and breaking up opposition attacks.
Baldisimo’s move to San Jose in 2023 was a fresh start for the 24-year-old midfielder. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to dictate play from deep positions, Baldisimo provides a different dimension to the Earthquakes’ midfield. His passing range and ability to switch the point of attack make him a valuable asset in building play from the back. While he may not be the most flashy player, Baldisimo’s consistency and tactical intelligence make him an important part of the squad. With his best years still ahead of him, Baldisimo has the potential to become a key player for the Earthquakes.
Jack Skahan
Jack Skahan, a hardworking and versatile midfielder, brings energy and determination to the Earthquakes’ lineup. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Skahan played college soccer at the University of North Carolina, where he developed a reputation as a tireless worker and team player. His performances in college earned him a spot in the 2021 MLS SuperDraft, where he was selected by the Earthquakes.
Skahan’s ability to play multiple positions in midfield and attack makes him a valuable utility player for the team. Whether deployed as a central midfielder, winger, or even as a full-back, Skahan’s work rate and commitment to the team’s cause are unwavering. While he may not always grab the headlines, his contributions off the ball and willingness to do the dirty work are appreciated by teammates and fans alike. At 25 years old, Skahan is still developing and has the potential to carve out a more prominent role in the team.
Benjamin Kikanović
Benjamin Kikanović, a versatile attacking midfielder, adds creativity and flair to the Earthquakes’ midfield. Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kikanović moved to the United States at a young age and developed his skills in the youth ranks. He joined the Earthquakes in 2021 after impressing in the USL Championship with Reno 1868 FC. Kikanović’s ability to play as a winger or central attacking midfielder gives the team flexibility in its attacking options.
Kikanović is known for his dribbling ability, quick feet, and eye for goal. His knack for finding space in tight areas and creating chances for himself and his teammates makes him a valuable asset in the final third. While he is still refining his game, Kikanović’s potential is evident, and he has already shown glimpses of his talent in MLS. At 24 years old, he is poised to take the next step in his development and become a more consistent contributor for the Earthquakes.
Conclusion
The San Jose Earthquakes’ midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and international talent. From the leadership of Jackson Yueill to the tenacity of Carlos Gruezo and the creativity of Cristian Espinoza, each player brings a unique set of skills that will be crucial to the team’s success. With rising stars like Niko Tsakiris and established contributors like Jamiro Monteiro, the Earthquakes have the depth and quality to compete at the highest level. As the season unfolds, the midfield will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in determining the team’s fortunes. Fans can look forward to an exciting and dynamic brand of soccer as the Earthquakes aim to make their mark in MLS.
