San Diego FC’s shocking move brings USMNT star Luca de la Torre back home | OneFootball

San Diego FC is going to make a signing that promises to shake the foundations for their MLS debut in 2025. Luca de la Torre, a USMNT midfielder for Celta de Vigo, is close to joining the Californians thanks to a loan deal with a purchase option. The return of the athlete to his hometown is not only technical but also a story full of symbolism.

Home to a new beginning, it has been a career full of ups and downs for the midfielder, who left San Diego as a youngster to start his European sojourn with soccer. Having played for Fulham and Heracles Almelo, he finally joined Celta de Vigo, where he has featured in 67 matches since 2022.

Still, life hasn't gone entirely smoothly in Spain, where after one single outing this season because of an ankle injury, de la Torre lost his spot in the Celta squad. A loan transfer to San Diego FC, with such great surroundings and atmosphere, can give him just what he needs to get into rhythm once more.

It is not a coincidence that his return to professional soccer came in the same city where everything started. That means going to your roots, taking charge of an ambitious project that has just started.

Why Luca de la Torre is key for San Diego FC

Clearly, Luca de la Torre is one of the reasons why San Diego FC has bet on him: a polyvalent, fine player technically, capable of playing different roles in midfield.

De la Torre's main strengths include his precise passing, solid vision, and ball recovery ability. He can play both as a central midfielder or in a deeper role, depending on tactical needs. Having a player that combines technical quality with international experience is a huge asset for a team that is still trying to find its shape.

This automatically allows for an instant connection between fans and a particular player, providing there's someone from their own backyard on the roster. Luca's signing will be surefire fan bait as fans in San Diego now get to watch him sport their city colors on one of the biggest mainstages within North American soccer.

What this signing really means for club de San Diego

San Diego FC is not joking around when it comes to the preparation of their MLS team. Whereas other franchises would have been more conservative, especially at the beginning, San Diego immediately showed ambition by pursuing players with an international profile.

It is also a strategic move: having de la Torre in before the season allows him to be integrated into the team, to join training sessions, and to help shape the style of play of the squad.

Additionally, the loan with a purchase option agreement allows the club the flexibility to evaluate his performance and make a call on his future based on concrete results.

The challenges for Luca de la Torre in San Diego

Indeed, despite his potentially great contribution on the field, there are challenges ahead. He hardly plays recently, and it could be his primary set back. In addition, from a local player who sees international action, much is being expected, and this de la Torre must balance himself to shoulder such demands of responsibility to lead a budding team to success.

On the other hand, this San Diego FC environment may be what he needs to get back into his groove of confidence and fitness. Being surrounded by a supportive fanbase and playing for a team that values his experience might be just what he needs for a successful fresh start.