San Jose Earthquakes Sign Hometown Midfielder Jonathan González

The 26-year-old Mexican international joins the Quakes on a multi-year deal after stints in Liga MX and MLS.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The San Jose Earthquakes have officially announced the signing of midfielder Jonathan González, a California native who returns home after playing in Liga MX and on loan with Minnesota United FC. The 26-year-old Mexican international has committed to the Quakes through 2026, with club options extending his deal further.

Why it matters

The addition of González, who has extensive experience at the professional and international levels, provides a boost to San Jose's midfield as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 season and compete in the crowded Western Conference of MLS.

The details

González, who has participated in 190 first-team matches across all competitions, arrives as a free agent following his tenure with FC Juárez in Liga MX. His career highlights include a significant spell at Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey, as well as a loan period with Minnesota United FC in MLS. Initially representing the United States at youth international levels, González switched allegiance to Mexico in 2018 and has earned three caps with El Tri.

  • The Earthquakes officially announced González's signing on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • González's contract with the Earthquakes runs through the 2026 MLS season, with club options extending the deal to June 2027 and the 2027-28 season.

The players

Jonathan González

A 26-year-old midfielder who joins the San Jose Earthquakes after playing in Liga MX and on loan with Minnesota United FC. The California native has also represented Mexico's national team.

Bruce Arena

The Earthquakes' sporting director and head coach, who expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition of González and his experience in Liga MX and at the international level.

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What they’re saying

“We're pleased to sign Jonathan González. Jonathan is a seasoned veteran with experience in LIGA MX and at the international level who adds depth to our midfield.”

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

“I'm excited to come back home to the Bay Area and play for the Earthquakes. We had a strong preseason, and I'm looking forward to being a part of the team in 2026.”

— Jonathan González (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The Earthquakes will kick off their 2026 MLS season by hosting Sporting Kansas City on Saturday, February 29 at 10:30 pm ET, with the match being broadcast on Apple TV.

The takeaway

The signing of Jonathan González, a California native with extensive professional and international experience, provides a significant boost to the San Jose Earthquakes' midfield as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 season and compete in the competitive Western Conference of MLS.