Table of Contents
San Diego FC made another major statement in the summer transfer window on Friday, announcing the signing of Tunisia international winger Elias Achouri from Danish champions FC Copenhagen. The 27-year-old joins SDFC as the club's third-ever Designated Player, signing a contract through June 2029 pending his P1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate.
Achouri arrives in San Diego with an impressive résumé that includes top-level European experience and a recent appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he started all three group-stage matches for Tunisia against Sweden, Japan, and the Netherlands. Sporting Director Tyler Heaps believes Achouri's experience at both the club and international levels will help elevate San Diego's squad.
"We're excited to welcome Elias to San Diego FC," Heaps said. "He is a player with experience competing at a high level in both European club competitions and on the international stage, and we believe he'll be a strong addition to our group. This signing reflects our continued commitment to building a roster that can compete at the highest level."
Achouri spent the last three seasons with FC Copenhagen, making 116 appearances while contributing 12 goals and 26 assists across all competitions. During his time in Denmark, he helped the club capture both the 2024-25 Danish Superliga title and the Danish Cup. Before earning his move to Copenhagen, Achouri enjoyed a breakout campaign with Viborg FF, where his creativity and attacking flair produced six goals and nine assists in a single season.
The signing adds another dynamic attacking option to a squad looking to rediscover the form that made it one of MLS's most exciting teams. Comfortable playing on either wing, Achouri is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and chance creation, qualities that should fit naturally into Mikey Varas' possession-based system. With Anders Dreyer already among the league leaders in assists, Achouri gives SDFC another proven playmaker capable of unlocking defenses and creating opportunities in the final third.
Achouri will be will be presented to fans at Snapdragon Stadium prior to kickoff, giving supporters their first look at one of the biggest signings in club history.
