Almeyda coming back for a second season at helm
San Jose Earthquakes coach Matias Almeyda said at his season-ending news conference Wednesday that he will return for a second season as coach of the team.
Almeyda’s name had dominated headlines in Mexican media in recent days, as widespread reports surfaced that he was a target of Liga MX club Monterrey. Before coming to San Jose for 2019, Almeyda had managed Liga MX team Chivas Guadalajara to several titles, most notably the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League crown.
During his first year in charge of San Jose, Almedya narrowly missed the playoffs with a 1316-5 record and 44 points. They were eighth in the Western Conference, resulting in a nice turnaround after finishing with a 4-21-9 record in 2018. Altogether, San Jose posted a 23-point turnaround. His contract runs through 2022.
“I’m grateful being in this place, and hopeful this will keep growing,” Almeyda said Wednesday. “Changing clubs
does not even cross my mind.”
Almeyda indicated he wants all-time MLS goal leader Chris Wondolwoski to return.
“He has been given a contract offer so that he can retire in San Jose,” Almeyda said.
Wondolowski, 36, who has 159 career goals, scored 15 goals in 32 matches this
past season. It marked his 10th straight season of scoring at least 10.
“He wants to play one more year,” said Wondolowski’s father, John Wondolowski. “His first choice is San Jose.”
Almeyda said he couldn’t guarantee Wondolowski would be a starter next season if he returns.
While San Jose sported a nice turnaround under Almeyda’s system, the team finished the season with six straight losses and struggled with red cards down the stretch.