Timo Werner is expected to make his San Jose Earthquakes debut this Saturday at PayPal Park when the Bay Area team faces Atlanta United. The forward arrived in the United States earlier this week, fresh from welcoming his first child in Germany, and is now prepared to help lead the Earthquakes in their pursuit of a playoff return in the 2026 MLS season.
Experienced Forward Joins Earthquakes After January Acquisition
Werner, the club’s new Designated Player signed in late January, brings a wealth of experience to San Jose’s attacking lineup. Over nearly 450 professional matches, he has scored 153 goals and supplied 86 assists from his time with Bundesliga clubs VfB Stuttgart and RB Leipzig, as well as Premier League teams Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.
The 57-cap German international boasts several major honors, including the UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup titles, both won with Chelsea. His arrival follows the departure of Cristian Espinoza, who moved to Nashville SC, Chicho Arango, loaned to Colombian side Atlético Nacional, and Josef Martínez, who signed with Liga MX club Atlas. Together, that trio accounted for 31 goals and 21 assists last season.
Earthquakes Seek to Build Momentum After Strong Season Start
San Jose kicked off their 2026 campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory against Sporting Kansas City during MLS is Back weekend, setting a positive tone for the year. Werner’s impending San Jose Earthquakes debut is anticipated to enhance the team’s attack as they prepare to host Atlanta United for Matchday 2 in hopes of continuing their winning form.
Potential Impact and What Lies Ahead for San Jose
The addition of Werner could mark a turning point for the Earthquakes’ offensive strategy, offering a dynamic goal-scoring threat with proven success at top European clubs. As the team integrates its new Designated Player, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Werner can drive San Jose back into contention for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.
live looks ðð pic.twitter.com/e3R76EHWfP— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) February 26, 2026
live looks 🔋😁 pic.twitter.com/e3R76EHWfP
— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) February 26, 2026
