With Hirving Lozano off San Diego FC's 2026 plans and Anders Dreyer entrenched as the attacking hub, bettors might favor Dreyer for goal/assist player props and expect a conservative reshuffle that could lower the team's over/under goal totals until a new Designated Player striker is signed.
San Diego FC confirms Hirving Lozano will not return for 2026
San Diego FC's sporting director Tyler Heaps confirmed the club has told Hirving "Chucky" Lozano he is not part of the team's sporting plans for the 2026 MLS season. The 30-year-old forward, who joined ahead of the club's inaugural season in a reported $12 million deal from PSV Eindhoven, will leave as the club explores options that better fit its long-term strategy.
How the split unfolded
Lozano's departure follows a fractured end to the 2025 campaign, which included being benched for the regular-season finale and San Diego's first MLS Cup playoff match amid an internal situation. Club leadership says it is working with Lozano and his representatives to find the best exit solution.
Anders Dreyer emerges as San Diego's attacking focal point
While Lozano provided international star power, Danish winger Anders Dreyer became San Diego's on-field engine. Dreyer started every regular-season match, finishing with 19 goals and 19 assists in 34 games, earning MLS Newcomer of the Year honors and drawing MVP consideration. With Lozano gone, Dreyer's role as the primary threat on the wing — and set-piece presence — becomes even more central.
Squad construction and transfer implications
Removing Lozano from the roster frees a Designated Player slot. San Diego can target a true striker to pair with Dreyer, potentially adding a forward who complements Dreyer’s chance-creation from wide areas. Club leadership emphasized a collective approach and team chemistry as priorities for the upcoming season.
Upcoming schedule and context
San Diego FC open competitive play with the Concacaf Champions Cup first round against Pumas UNAM on Feb. 3, then host CF Montréal to kick off their MLS season on Feb. 21.
Betting implications
Expect short-term market movement: with Lozano gone, San Diego may see fewer high-risk, high-reward attacking plays early in the season, which can push team total goal lines lower. Bettors should consider backing Dreyer for goal/assist props and monitor the transfer window — the signing of a new DP striker would likely increase San Diego’s projected goals and shift lines back up.
Key stats
Lozano — 27 regular-season appearances, 9 goals, 10 assists for San Diego FC. Dreyer — 34 appearances, 19 goals, 19 assists, MLS Newcomer of the Year.
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