Pokémon was created in 1996 and has blossomed into the second best-selling video game franchise of all-time. Despite carrying the slogan
Gotta Catch ‘Em All
, the latest emergence in the Pokémon family has proved to be difficult for MLS defenses to contain.
Just 10 appearances into his Major League Soccer career,
Jahmir Hyka
– now known as
Hykachu
– has tallied two goals (one game-winner) and three assists (two game-winners) for San Jose in 2017.
The nickname was officially bestowed on the diminutive winger following the team’s 3-0 toppling of Portland last weekend. A young fan named Alex Ibarra and his mother, Carina, were standing behind the goal on the supporters’ end, proudly showing off their creation – a large drawing of Pokémon’s most well known character, Pikachu, wearing Hyka’s No. 10 shirt. The caption below read,
Hykachu!
Alex has brought the sign to two games – vs. FC Dallas on April 14 and vs. Portland on May 6. Hyka scored in both matches, one a late equalizer and one a game-winner.
The Albanian international approached Alex and happily handed over his game-worn jersey, giving him a hug and thanking him for his support. The two quickly bonded despite interacting for just a moment.
Fans in attendance at the Quakes’ next home game on Wednesday, May 17 against Orlando City SC should look out for Hyka’s biggest fan, Alex, and his sign in the standing-only section under the Supporters’ Terrace.
