Today, February 19, 2025, the San Jose Earthquakes permitted the media to attend their practice before the regular season home opener.
Head coach Bruce Arena welcomed the media onto the field, allowing them to ask questions to both him and players like Cristian Espinosa and newly signed free agent Josef Martinez. The team demonstrated a few drills before concluding practice, but the fresh energy within the team is palpable following a challenging season last year where the team finished at the bottom of the table.
Josef Martinez and Chicho Arango, acquired during the off-season, were notable during practice as they ran drills together in the final segments. It was also encouraging to see Hernán Lopez in high spirits after weeks of being the subject of rumors, and he appears prepared to begin this season.
Bruce Arena's arrival at the Earthquakes has created quite a buzz across the league, and it seems that modifications have been made both in the locker room and elsewhere. Last season, the team endured despite the firing of their head coach and poor outcomes. The team reminds me of the 2023 "vibe," as they seem more confident than ever going into this season, and on paper, they have every reason to feel hopeful.
One aspect that caught my attention was Josef Martinez's remark about the team's primary focus being its "attitude." This seemed to be a key focus for Bruce Arena as well.
PayPal Park has also received some upgrades heading into the new year. They added more sound equipment and have even created a DJ stage area to make the place even more suited for Quakes gameday entertainment. They also revamped their visual pyrotechnics along with their food options, expanding the options from what they had last year.
Images via Jose Rocha of Rocha Report and Rocha Multimedia
The 2025 Major League Soccer season is set to begin at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. This Saturday, the San Jose Earthquakes will face Real Salt Lake at home to start the season.
More Images from San Jose Earthquakes Media Day 2025:
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