We knew a United Soccer League team was setting up shop in San Diego. We just didn't know much else.
That changed Tuesday.
USL San Diego announced its plans to begin play in 2020, taking part in the upcoming season which begins in March. The group led by Landon Donovan and Warren Smith made the announcement in front of fans and media at Modern Times in Point Loma.
"Our fans deserve it," Donovan said. "This city has been through a lot as it pertains to soccer. We have listened to what people have said and they said we want 2020. We want this to happen in 2020."
Donovan - who spent part of 2019 playing for the Sockers - is the team's Executive VP of Soccer. There is also speculation that he could take over coaching duties, however the team won't name a head coach until later this fall. They will also unveil their name and logo at a later date.
@USLSanDiego dynamic duo @landondonovan @TheWarrenSmith optimistic about SD’s futbol future. Story 11pm @nbcsandiego pic.twitter.com/Q9ExfdNSko — Todd Strain (@TODDSTRAINNBCSD) September 18, 2019
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San Diego's team will be in the USL's second division. The club will play its home games at Torero Stadium. Smith said he has spoken with SDSU Athletic Director J.D. Wicker about the possibility of partnering with the university, who has plans in the works for a new stadium in Mission Valley.
