Érick Gutiérrez Could Be the Maestro San Diego FC Needs | OneFootball

Looks like San Diego FC isn’t playing around. The newest franchise in Major League Soccer, set to make its big debut in 2024, is aiming high by targeting Érick Gutiérrez, the 29-year-old Mexican midfielder currently with Chivas. But don’t think for a second this is just any random signing.

San Diego FC might be new, but they’re not acting like rookies. This club seems determined to build a strong identity right out of the gate. And going after Érick Gutiérrez? It just makes sense. He’s the kind of player who brings not only technical skills but also a wealth of international experience.

Gutiérrez has a resume that practically speaks for itself. At PSV, he was the guy who held down the midfield like a conductor leading an orchestra. He was dishing out sharp passes, orchestrating quick transitions, and didn’t shy away from taking a crack at goal from long range. At Chivas, even in a relatively short stint, he’s continued to be a cornerstone for the team. If he brings that same level of play to MLS, there’s no doubt he could elevate San Diego FC to a whole new level.

Signing Érick Gutiérrez isn’t just about what happens on the pitch, it’s also a marketing goldmine. San Diego boasts a massive Latino community, and bringing in a Mexican player with European experience is like waving a giant flag that says, “We’re your team.”

If you’re not familiar with Érick Gutiérrez, here’s a quick rundown. He kicked off his career at Pachuca in Mexico, quickly earning a reputation for his vision and technical ability. It didn’t take long for PSV, one of Dutch soccer’s heavyweights, to come knocking. In Europe, Gutiérrez grew, learned, and established himself as a high-caliber player.

Now with Chivas, he’s brought that international experience back to Liga MX. But here’s the big question: Has he hit his ceiling there? Maybe MLS is exactly what he needs, a chance to revive his career and explore new challenges.

Gutiérrez isn’t just another piece in San Diego FC’s puzzle; he could be the centerpiece. A brand-new team needs leaders, on and off the field. Someone who can control the tempo of the game, inspire teammates, and carry the weight of being the marquee signing for a franchise starting from scratch.

MLS is getting more competitive every year. San Diego can’t afford to be just another team blending into the middle of the pack. They need to stand out, and that starts with smart signings. Gutiérrez isn’t just a tactical gamble; he’s a statement of intent.

Sure, there are always risks. Injuries, struggles to adapt, or even the growing pains of MLS as an emerging market. But honestly? This kind of gamble feels worth it. For a club that’s just beginning its journey, the worst mistake would be playing it safe. And from the looks of it, “safe” isn’t in San Diego FC’s playbook.