Hirving “Chucky” Lozano was officially presented as San Diego FC’s first-ever designated player this Thursday, June 13, at Snapdragon Stadium.

The event was Lozano’s official presentation to the media. Later this evening, there will also be a fan event at Rady Shell, featuring a concert by reggaeton star Lunay.

Lozano started to get emotional when a message by Mohamed Mansour appeared on a screen and then later was emotional and crying when talking about the coach that debuted him, Enrique Meza. Lozano talked about what influenced him to come to San Diego. “I loved the city, I loved the people. The people are incredible. The project here in San Diego motivated me. I had different offers, but this one really completed me in all aspects. I felt very identified in all aspects. This was the most important thing for me, but the people and city are beautiful.”

“Chucky” also expressed that it was not a “difficult” decision to leave European football aside and come to the MLS. “I think this project, this welcome, this care, for me, it was very important to make this decision. I am incredibly happy. Not a lot of players have this opportunity to create a club, a project and I am privileged to be in my position.”

Lozano’s contract is a four-year arrangement, but the Mexican star did express that “it would be phenomenal” to spend the rest of his career in San Diego.

The 28-year-old winger seemed overcome with joy to be at San Diego FC and seemed particularly enthusiastic about working with the Right to Dream project.

Lozano is San Diego FC’s first-ever designated player and has a plethora of experience, winning trophies at every club he has played for. From a marketing standpoint he will also contribute immensely to the club with there being a substantial Mexican soccer fan base in the region.

Some reports have stated that Lozano will be the second highest-paid player in MLS behind Lionel Messi, but there is no official news about his salary just yet. San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn also talked about Lozano’s importance to the club from a marketing standpoint. “You realize what he can mean to the market as well. He will be a big enough star to have this kind of turnout from the media and to have eight thousand people tonight at the celebration. That will mean something in this market”, Penn said.

Lozano is San Diego’s first-ever star signing, and he is a splash from every angle. Now, San Diego FC will need to build a proper team and look for the ideal head coach to lead this project forward.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 26, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego Loyal, San Diego Wave.