Hirving Lozano was introduced at San Diego FC on Thursday, the club where he will be under contract from January 1, 2025. The 28-year-old Mexican posed with the shirt, gave his first interviews, and held a press conference. He became emotional when talking about Enrique Meza, his coach at Pachuca.
San Diego will be part of the MLS for the first time after the New Year. Chucky, who is leaving PSV in the winter transfer window, will be able to play the first league game for the new American club. “For me, it’s a great opportunity. I will do my best to help this club grow and become an important club in the MLS and, why not, in the world,” Lozano said.
When it came to Meza, Lozano became emotional. The now 76-year-old coach, who was also present at Chucky’s presentation, gave the winger his debut at Pachuca when he was eighteen. That was the team where Lozano made a name for himself before moving to PSV for over thirteen million euros in the summer of 2017. “He is like a father figure to me. He has always supported me and I try to talk to him often. Since I played in Italy, we have had very nice conversations, and he gives me different advice every day. The truth is, I don’t have enough words for him,” said Lozano.
“I think he has always supported me from the beginning, and I have many beautiful memories of him,” the Mexican added. San Diego reportedly paid twelve million euros for Lozano, whom PSV paid fifteen million euros for last summer. The loss for PSV is minimal.
San Diego had designated Lozano as the first ‘Designated Player’. This rule allows MLS clubs to have three players in their squad who would normally fall outside the salary norms. Lozano is said to be earning six million euros per year.
It is evident that Lozano is joining an ambitious club based on their future plans. San Diego, which is only a year old, also approached Kevin De Bruyne.
Hirving Lozano’s emotional presentation at San Diego FC reflects his gratitude towards his former coach and excitement for the new chapter in his career. His journey from Pachuca to PSV and now to the MLS showcases his dedication and talent in the world of football. The support and mentorship he received from Enrique Meza have played a crucial role in shaping his career, and San Diego FC’s investment in him highlights their commitment to success in the league. As Chucky embarks on this new adventure, fans and followers eagerly anticipate his contributions to the club and the MLS as a whole.