When does San Diego FC debut in MLS?

San Diego FC is the next expansion team joining Major League Soccer, but when exactly will the new club debut?

The MLS has come a long way from only having 10 teams back in 1996. Less than three decades later, Major League Soccer has 29 clubs scattered across the United States and Canada. The league is constantly growing and evolving, so much so that another team is officially joining the Western Conference.

In May of last year, MLS Commissioner Don Garber announced San Diego would be the league's 30th team.

"We are thrilled to welcome San Diego to Major League Soccer as our 30th team," said Garber. "For many years we have believed San Diego would be a terrific MLS market due to its youthful energy, great diversity, and the fact that soccer is an essential part of everyday life for so many people."

Fortunately, San Diego natives excited to root for their home club do not have to wait much longer for San Diego FC to play their first MLS match.

When does San Diego FC debut in MLS?

San Diego FC debuts in the MLS in 2025. Although the expansion club was announced over a year ago, it will not officially join the Western Conference and Major League soccer until next season.

San Diego FC might not be participating in the 2024 MLS campaign, but the club is still making moves off the pitch. Four players are already signed to the Chrome & Azul, including PSV Eindhoven's Chucky Lozano for a reported $12 million.

Beyond their current squad, San Diego FC is also preparing for the future. They are constructing the Right to Dream Academy with plans to develop young players from both the United States and Mexico.

The location of the city offers unique opportunities for the team to further collaborate with Mexican players and clubs. San Diego FC signed a partnership with Liga MX's Club Tijuana to host an annual friendly match between the two sides at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, CA.

As San Diego's MLS debut draws closer, expect plenty of more exciting announcements from the club, including the hiring of their manager.