Mikey Varas has already made waves in American soccer, and now he’s tasked with leading a brand-new team into Major League Soccer (MLS). Varas was officially named San Diego FC’s first head coach on Monday, September 16, marking a significant moment in the club’s young history as it prepares for its inaugural season.

“I want to thank the people of San Diego, the communities in San Diego for entrusting me with such an important project,” Varas said during today’s press conference at Snapdragon Stadium. “I can say I will give everything to this project and to the people of the entire region to make sure that we make you filled with pride not only for your community but for the team.”

Varas, 41, resume includes stints on the U.S. U-20 men’s national team and, most recently, interim head coach for the senior U.S. men’s national team. His success with the U-20s, including winning the 2022 Concacaf U-20 Championship and securing Olympic qualification for the first time since 2008, underscored his ability to lead young talent on the international stage.

The decision to hire Varas was part of a deliberate and thorough process, according to SDFC Sporting Director Tyler Heaps.

“The process that we went through to get here has been an extensive one,” Heaps said in his opening remark. “It hasn’t been short. We have a luxury as an expansion team where we can take our time to hire a head coach and ensure that we get this correct — and I think we are very happy with that process.”

Heaps added that culture and style of play were two key factors the club was looking for in a coach. Varas stood out for his alignment with the club’s philosophy and values. He has worked at multiple levels of American soccer, from FC Dallas to Sacramento Republic Academy, with a proven track record of nurturing talent.

San Diego FC is building its foundation around the Right to Dream Academy, which emphasizes youth development on and off the field. As part of this vision, the club is constructing a $150 million facility in eastern San Diego, set to open in 2025. The academy will offer top-tier education and elite soccer training for students aged 11-18, providing full scholarships to student-athletes. This expansion already operates successful academies in Ghana, Denmark, and Egypt, now bringing its model to California.

“The style of play will be not only a reflection of Right to Dream, but it will be a reflection of the community of San Diego,” Varas said. “It’s important that the uniqueness of this city and this region comes to life on the field so that everybody feels attached to what we do.”

Varas, although not as well-known as some of the sport’s more high-profile figures, has built a reputation as a coach who prioritizes the long-term development of players. His vision is perfectly aligned with the club’s goals. “We wanted somebody that saw football the way that we did,” Heaps said. “I think without a doubt throughout the entire interview process, Mikey not only exemplified those two things that we were looking for, but also his excitement and energy.”

Since joining the club, Varas has already begun connecting with the six players on the roster, including star signing Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. Lozano, a 29-year-old forward from Mexico and San Diego’s first designated player, signed a four-year contract with two option years. His arrival has generated considerable excitement ahead of the team’s first season.

“Hirving is an incredible player,” Varas said. “I don’t think there’s anything that I can say that people haven’t seen. He’s a proven winner. He has a warrior mentality in terms of helping the team win the game in any way. And then he’s a high-level talent in terms of creating goals and scoring goals. And he’s done it at the highest level.”

In addition to Lozano, the club has signed a mix of talent, including Paddy McNair (defender), Alex Mighten (winger), Marcus Ingvartsen (forward), Jeppe Tverskov (midfielder) and Duran Ferree (goalkeeper). The upcoming MLS draft in December will allow the club to add even more depth, with the opportunity to select unprotected players from other teams.

“Our relationship has already started. It started in a very good way throughout the entire process,” Heaps said. “It was very apparent to me early that we saw eye to eye, that we shared those same values that he speaks about, and we see football in the same way.”

Varas outlined the core values that he will be bringing to San Diego: being a good person, having a growth mindset, and embracing competition while attacking challenges with courage. Reflecting on the city, Varas expressed his deep connection to San Diego and his excitement for what lies ahead.

“What excites me most is San Diego is a special place,” Varas said. “I think anybody who’s spent any time in any of the 18 communities understands what I mean when I say that.”

As San Diego FC prepares for its inaugural season, Varas has the full support of the club’s leadership, who are confident he will guide them through their debut campaign with his vision and commitment to player development.

Sebastian Sanchez

Sebastian Sanchez was born and raised in San Diego. He recently received his bachelor’s degree in Sports Journalism from Arizona State University. A passionate storyteller who has experience covering the Phoenix Mercury and Suns. He has also written for multiple news outlets, reporting on various sports at the college and high school levels.