Earthquakes Introduce Designated Player Carlos Gruezo

February 2, 2023 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – San Jose Earthquakes News Release

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes held an introductory press conference for new Designated Player Carlos Gruezo on Thursday. Gruezo was acquired on Tuesday from German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg and signed to a Designated Player contract through the 2025 season with a club option for 2026.

Gruezo was accompanied by Earthquakes Head Coach Luchi Gonzalez and General Manager Chris Leitch.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER CARLOS GRUEZO

Opening remarks:

“I’m thankful for God, coach Luchi [Gonzalez], and Chris [Leitch] for giving me the opportunity to join the San Jose Earthquakes. I’m very happy to be here, to work with the club and be a part of this project. I look forward to working hard to earn a spot with the team and help earn success. I hope to take San Jose to the top of the standings during my seasons here.”

On using his European experience to help the team:

“I matured a lot during the last three years. I think that my personal growth has been really good because that helps me to come here and work hard, join this club, and share that experience and learnings with my new teammates. But that doesn’t guarantee me anything. I have to work hard, be physically fit, try to do my best and be a part of this family that has been forming. We have been building that and that gives me peace knowing that they have welcomed me well. I’m looking forward to working hard and stay humble. Any way I can help my teammates and this club, I’ll do it in the best way possible so that together as a team, as a family, we can achieve those results we’re all striving for.”

On Luchi’s involvement in the transfer process:

“I’m thankful for Luchi’s trust in me. We spoke about this project, and he asked me if I wanted to join him, and I said yes because we had worked together before. I know how he works, his work ethic is excellent, and he has grown with the U.S. Men’s National Team. I also spoke with my family, which were happy and supportive, so we decided to come here and hopefully make history with this club. I look forward to working together and accomplish our objectives.”

On expectations of him being a Designated Player:

“It’s an interesting situation because there are more expectations. The fact that the coach knows me does not guarantee me anything. I have to prove myself at training every day, stay physically fit, and be up to par to do what’s required this year. There is an excellent…