Aníbal Godoy joins San Diego FC to strengthen their midfield for 2025 season | OneFootball

San Diego FC made the most important move in the market so far, signing a 34-year-old Panamanian midfielder, Aníbal Godoy, with vast MLS experience. The player has arrived with a contract until 2025, with an option for 2026-27, and the club doesn't have to worry about an international slot because Godoy holds a U.S. Green Card. His arrival is an important reinforcement for the midfield of the team, bringing not just skill but also the experience necessary to face the challenges of the 2025 season.

A strengthened midfield

Godoy, who made his career in MLS with San Jose Earthquakes and Nashville SC, has 212 regular-season appearances, with 8 goals and 19 assists. While those numbers might not be out of this world, Godoy's experience at the highest level-especially his presence with the national team-brings valuable depth to San Diego FC.

As the sporting director, Tyler Heaps, said: "Aníbal is an experienced midfielder who brings valuable depth to our midfield." His ability to control the center of the field and serve as a reference for younger players might be exactly what San Diego FC needs.

Godoy has had a long international career that has seen him represent Panama in the 2018 World Cup and the Centennial Copa América, among other competitions. With 143 appearances for the Panama national team, his international experience will be a plus for San Diego FC.

The leadership he brought to the Panama national team will also be useful for San Diego FC. Though soccer is a team sport, an experienced player like Godoy has the power to inspire and guide his teammates, especially the younger ones.

Challenges ahead

But with Godoy on board, San Diego FC still faces an uphill battle on the road to relevance in MLS. For sure, he will bring a level of experience in the midfield, but his presence alone is not all the club needs; the team must be well-knitted so that all the players can raise the level of their play.

Besides, there is stiff competition in Major League Soccer. The San Diego FC needs more than just experienced players; it needs everyone working in a system that can compete against the best teams in the league. While Godoy has the ability to contribute substantially, how far San Diego FC goes this season will depend on the development and cohesion of the entire squad.