San Jose Earthquakes Sign Former Chelsea Star Timo Werner

Werner joins MLS club on designated player contract through 2028 season.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 10:31am

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The San Jose Earthquakes have acquired former Chelsea and German national team forward Timo Werner on a designated player contract through 2028. Werner, 29, is considered the biggest signing in Earthquakes history and joins the club as part of an ongoing rebuild under head coach Bruce Arena.

Why it matters

The signing of Werner, a Champions League and Europa League winner, represents a major coup for the Earthquakes as they look to end a five-year playoff drought and establish themselves as a contender in MLS. His arrival alongside fellow forward Cristian 'Chicho' Arango gives the team a potent attacking duo.

The details

Werner was signed to a designated player contract, allowing the Earthquakes to exceed the MLS salary cap to bring in the German international. He compiled 57 caps for Germany, scoring 24 goals, and won titles with Chelsea, Tottenham, and RB Leipzig earlier in his career. After struggling for playing time recently, Werner will look to revive his career in MLS.

  • The Earthquakes announced Werner's signing on January 29, 2026.
  • Werner's contract runs through June 2028.

The players

Timo Werner

A 29-year-old German forward who has played for Chelsea, Tottenham, and RB Leipzig, and has 57 caps for the German national team.

Bruce Arena

The head coach of the San Jose Earthquakes, who is leading the team's rebuild after they finished last in MLS the prior season.

Cristian 'Chicho' Arango

A forward for the San Jose Earthquakes who will partner with Werner in the team's attack.

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What they’re saying

“To have a player of Timo's caliber coming in is simply outstanding for the club and the community.”

— Bruce Arena, Head Coach, San Jose Earthquakes (San Jose Earthquakes)

What’s next

The Earthquakes will look to integrate Werner into their lineup ahead of the 2026 MLS season, with the goal of ending their five-year playoff drought and challenging for trophies.

The takeaway

The signing of Timo Werner represents a major statement of intent from the San Jose Earthquakes as they look to rebuild and establish themselves as an MLS contender. His arrival, along with the continued development of Cristian 'Chicho' Arango, gives the team a formidable attacking duo that could propel them back to the playoffs.