After much anticipation from the local soccer fans, Irving Chucky Lozano made his first appearance on the pitch with his new SDFC teammates during their first training session held this week at Sharp HealthCare Performance Center.
The Mexican national team legend arrived in San Diego coming through the Cross Border Xpress on June 10 to the cheers and applause of the waiting fans. Lozano was signed on June 6 to a four-year contract through 2028 activated on Jan. 1, which made him the first Designated Player in the history of the club.
Lozano started his professional career with Liga MX side Pachuca and most recently with Eredivisie club PSV Eindhoven. He made 70 appearances with the senior Mexican national team including his most famous appearance on June 17, 2018, in the opening round of the World Cup when El Tri defeated then defending champion Germany. The goal, which came in the 35th minute, caused the ground to shake and set off seismic sensors in Mexico City due to the celebration that ensued, according to experts.
Besides winning championships with PSV Eindhoven, Lozano has also lifted the league title with Napoli in Italy and with Pachuca of Liga MX. Among his many accolades are being named CONCACAF Men’s Player of the Year in 2018 and the best 11 in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2021.
SDFC will be playing in the Coachella Valley Invitational against NYC FC on Feb. 8, followed by the Portland Timbers on Feb. 12, and N.Y. Red Bulls on Feb. 15 as part of its preseason preparations.