Major League Soccer’s newest entrant, San Diego FC, have made an instant impact by finishing at the top of the Western Conference in their maiden season — a feat rarely achieved by a debut club. Led by head coach Mikey Varas, the team has quickly established a distinct identity rooted in the Right to Dream football network, which began as an academy in Ghana before expanding into Europe and now the United States.
Building from a powerful legacy
Varas credits the club’s early success to the Right to Dream philosophy, which focuses on winning with purpose. “We might be new to MLS, but our football culture is rich,” said Varas, who previously had a short stint as interim coach of the U.S. national team. Drawing inspiration from Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona model, he has crafted a fluid, attacking brand of football that has not only won matches but hearts as well.
Players embracing a shared dream
Midfielder Anders Dreyer, who joined from Anderlecht, said the lack of past baggage allowed players to start fresh. “It’s rare to be part of a team with no history. Everyone here wanted to build something new together,” he said. Dreyer, with 39 goal contributions this season, is second only to Lionel Messi in MLS goal involvement.
A fan culture united by community
The city of San Diego has responded with immense enthusiasm. The club averages over 28,000 fans per game, creating one of the most vibrant atmospheres in the league. Local supporter Steve Cabrera shared, “Before every match, we gather, share food and chants — it feels like one big family.”
San Diego FC now aim to go beyond a dream debut and establish themselves as long-term contenders for the MLS Cup.
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