Timo Werner joins San Jose Earthquakes as Designated Player

German star eager to "create new history" with MLS club

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:15pm

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Timo Werner, the former Chelsea and Tottenham striker, has signed with the San Jose Earthquakes as the club's newest Designated Player. Werner, a proven winner with titles from the UEFA Champions League, Europa League and FIFA Club World Cup, is looking to add an MLS Cup to his trophy cabinet and help the Earthquakes return to the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.

Why it matters

The signing of Werner is a major statement of intent from the Earthquakes, who have struggled to contend for trophies in recent years. His arrival, along with the hiring of legendary coach Bruce Arena, signals the club's ambition to re-establish themselves as a force in MLS.

The details

Werner, 29, joins the Earthquakes after a difficult spell at RB Leipzig over the past six months. Eager to get back to regular playing time and winning trophies, the German international was convinced to make the move to MLS by Arena's vision for the club. As the Earthquakes' only current Designated Player, Werner will be expected to be a veteran leader for the team's younger players.

  • Werner signed with the Earthquakes in January 2026.
  • He is set to make his MLS debut on September 19, 2026 against LAFC.

The players

Timo Werner

A 29-year-old German forward who has won the UEFA Champions League, Europa League and FIFA Club World Cup in his career.

Bruce Arena

The head coach and sporting director of the San Jose Earthquakes, and the all-time winningest coach in MLS history.

Cristian Espinoza

A former Earthquakes player who departed the club to join Nashville SC via free agency.

Chicho Arango

A former Earthquakes player who was transferred to his native Colombia.

Beau Leroux

A young midfielder for the Earthquakes who will be looking to learn from Werner.

Niko Tsakiris

Another young midfielder for the Earthquakes who will be looking to learn from Werner.

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What they’re saying

“I bring the hunger. I bring also the knowledge and this confidence of winning something already, and paired with the quality that we have, for sure, makes us a dangerous team.”

— Timo Werner (mlssoccer.com)

“As I listen to Timo today. I'm just beaming with the fact that we've hit a home run. We have the right kind of player coming here, and his ambitions are there.”

— Bruce Arena, Head Coach and Sporting Director, San Jose Earthquakes (mlssoccer.com)

“I'm really looking forward to playing against him. I think there will be a good matchup against these teams, to play against him and also the other German guys, and some old teammates of mine.”

— Timo Werner (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

The Earthquakes will be looking to integrate Werner into the team quickly, with his MLS debut scheduled for September 19, 2026 against LAFC.

The takeaway

The signing of Timo Werner is a major coup for the San Jose Earthquakes, as they look to return to the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and compete for trophies. Werner's experience and winning pedigree could be the missing piece as the Earthquakes aim to create a new era of success for the club.