Mexican striker Hirving “Chucky” Lozano has decided to remain with San Diego FC of Major League Soccer (MLS) after weeks of speculation about his possible departure. Official sources from the league and the club itself confirmed that the player will remain with the team at least until 2026, when the World Cup will be held in North America.
Chucky Lozano, 30, arrived at San Diego FC in 2024 as the star signing of the new California franchise. His impact has been immediate both on the field and in marketing, making him one of the most recognizable faces in MLS.
From internal conflict to goal return
At the end of October 2025, the club’s coach acknowledged that the Mexican incurred in an act of indiscipline, which left him out of the first duel of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
The incident was resolved internally and, in the second match against Portland Timbers, Chucky Lozano returned to the field, scored a key goal and helped tie the game 2-2 in regular time before losing on penalties.
His return dispelled doubts and reinforced his commitment to the institution, while the board praised his professionalism after the episode.
Lozano’s salary: a compelling reason
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Thel incident was resolved internally
QuéOnnda.com
According to the Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA), Chucky Lozano is among the five highest paid players in all of MLS.
His annual salary is estimated at between $6.5 and $7.6 million, only below stars such as Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) and Lorenzo Insigne (Toronto FC).
This contract, signed until mid-2026, makes it virtually impossible for him to return to Liga MX, where no club can match those figures.
In addition, his permanence strengthens the MLS expansion project, which seeks to attract more elite Latin American talent.
World Cup 2026: stability before the challenge
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With less than 200 days until the start of the 2026 World Cup, Chucky Lozano believes that staying in San Diego is the best decision to maintain his competitive rhythm, visibility and family stability.
The striker is one of the most experienced Mexican players in Europe (after playing for PSV and Napoli) and is now looking to consolidate his position as a leader for El Tri in his third World Cup.
Lozano’s case also shows how MLS has become an attractive platform both financially and athletically for elite players, something unthinkable just a decade ago.
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