SAN JOSE, CA – The San Jose Earthquakes have bolstered their midfield by signing former US international Alfredo Morales. The club confirmed on Thursday that Morales joins them through the 2024 MLS season, with an option for 2025.
To secure Morales, San Jose acquired his rights from New York City FC in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2026 SuperDraft. Morales, who played for NYCFC from 2021-23, became available after NYCFC declined his contract option last fall.
Chris Leitch, Earthquakes General Manager, expressed confidence in Morales’ abilities: “Alfredo brings playoff experience and knows how to win in this league. I’m looking forward to having him as a veteran presence in our talented midfielder group for the 2024 season.”
Morales, an MLS Cup 2021 champion, contributed 0 goals and 7 assists in 73 regular-season games for NYCFC. Prior to his MLS stint, he spent nearly a dozen years in Germany’s top two divisions with clubs such as Hertha BSC, FC Ingolstadt, and Fortuna Düsseldorf. Additionally, Morales has 16 caps for the USMNT and was eligible to represent both Peru and Germany internationally.
In joining the Earthquakes, Morales becomes part of a strong midfield lineup, featuring Carlos Gruezo and Jackson Yueill. He is expected to fill the vacancy left by Judson’s departure and bring added depth and experience to the team.
San Jose, under head coach Luchi Gonzalez, narrowly made it into the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs as the Western Conference’s No. 9 seed. The Earthquakes are looking to build on this momentum as they begin their 2024 campaign on Feb. 24 against FC Dallas.
Morales’ signing is a strategic move for the Earthquakes, aiming to strengthen their midfield with his experience and knowledge of winning in the MLS. Fans and the team alike will be eager to see the impact Morales can make in the upcoming season.
