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The San Diego FC front office solidified their trust in head coach Mikey Varas and doubled down with a multi-year contract extension. The news comes just days after Sporting Director Tyler Heaps announced to the media that the club will no longer include Chucky Lozano in their future plans.
Heaps issued a statement backing Varas and the decision to extend his contract.
“From day one, Mikey set the standard for who we want to be as a Club,” said Heaps. “His leadership, tactical clarity & alignment, and commitment to player development were instrumental in delivering a historic inaugural season. Beyond the results, Mikey has helped build a strong culture and identity that reflects San Diego FC’s values, and we’re excited to continue this journey with him leading the team.”
Varas enjoyed much success in the club's inaugural year. He guided San Diego FC to the top of the Western Conference, finishing with a 19-9-6 record. The club earned a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup and advanced to the Western Conference Final. Along the way, SDFC rewrote the expansion record books, posting the most points (63) and the most victories by a first-year team.
All the success was not without drama. Multiple incidents with fan behavior and locker room issues made it a bit tough on Varas. Nevertheless, the skipper was able to right the ship. He rose in the face of adversity, embracing fans and emphasizing San Diego's culture multiple times throughout the season.
As for locker room issues, a clear message was sent to everyone looking in that no player is bigger than the club – a standard the club continues to stress again and again.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we have started developing together in our first season and grateful to the Club for the trust and belief they’ve shown in me,” said Varas. “San Diego FC represents something special – from our players and staff to our ownership and supporters. This extension is about continuing to raise standards, compete at the highest level, and build something sustainable that our city and region can be proud of. I will continue to give everything I have for the players, the staff, the fans, and this city.”
