The San Jose Earthquakes are continuing to prepare ahead of the team’s departure to Orlando, Fla. next week for the MLS is Back Tournament. The Earthquakes, along with all 25 other teams in Major League Soccer, will compete in a World Cup-style tournament where all Group Stage matches will count towards the regular season standings and the winner claims a spot in the upcoming Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League.
Despite the long stoppage in action, players remained optimistic about the prospects of the season continuing and have worked hard to make sure they’re ready when the time comes.
“There was some uncertainty about when we were going to start back up,” explained forward and team captain Chris Wondolowski. “But with that being said, the uncertainty looming kept you in shape.”
The Quakes were the last team in MLS to receive local clearance to train due to the cautiousness of Santa Clara County. Players ran around their respective neighborhoods, built make-shift gyms in their garages, and involved their kids in workout regimens – all for the sake of preparedness. San Jose returned to the training field last Tuesday, June 9 for the first time.
“We’re super excited to be a team again and compete with each other and compete in this tournament,” said star midfielder Jackson Yueill. “It’s a good way for us to get some points back for the season and a good way to win a trophy and Champions League qualification. I know everyone has put in a lot of work over the past three months outside and in their garages and living rooms, so I can speak for everyone when I say we’re excited to play again.”
The Earthquakes are preparing for a unique tournament; one that’s less forgiving than a traditional season.
“It’s difficult because it’s not like a long season,” said Yueill. “If you lose a game in the early round, it can be hard to advance, and if you lose later on, you’re out. Each game is more important. I think with the long break, it presents an opportunity for fit teams to show their stuff and I believe we’re one of the most fit teams in the league.”
Being among the teams most known for their fitness is one advantage the Quakes possess. Another is the leadership of head coach Matias Almeyda, who has earned a reputation as a short-form competition guru. Four of his five trophies earned at Chivas were short-form in nature – two in Copa MX, the Mexican equivalent of the U.S. Open Cup, along with one Supercopa and one Concacaf Champions League.
“I wish every supporter was able to see the energy Matias is transmitting,” clamored general manager Jesse Fioranelli. “You can feel that within our first team between players and the coaching staff. We’re in this together. Matias is setting an example by guiding this group and helping them understand what we are going to face in this particular tournament-like setting. Players can relate to his words and experience in these settings and what they are going to confront and how we should prepare for that moment.”
The players are not entirely devoid of relevant experience, with many having previously competed in similar tournaments for both club and country. Additionally, the expansion to five substitutes per game from three should allow teams to remain fresher while also giving young players a chance to contribute.
“I think Orlando is going to be a great opportunity for the team to showcase what we have,” said Wondolowski. “It’s a great opportunity to show our depth. Everyone on our roster will play a vital role and will get a chance to prove themselves. I’m looking forward to it and think we’ll make a run for it.”
Fortunately for MLS and its clubs, they are not the first league worldwide to attempt to return to play. The German Bundesliga and English Premier League, among others, have both successfully restarted their seasons, providing an opportunity to learn what’s effective and what’s not.
“Major League Soccer and its clubs have had an opportunity to watch and learn from various leagues in Europe that stopped playing earlier and returned earlier, including the German Bundesliga,” explained Fioranelli. “This has given us great knowledge on best practices for both our return to the training field and eventually league matches.”
The MLS is Back Tournament will provide 16 consecutive days of nationally televised action during the Group Stage, beginning July 8, followed by the nail-biting Knockout Round. More information, including the schedule and broadcast information will be announced soon.
