MLS
Matías Almeyda rules out return to Chivas next season
The Argentine manager wanted to put an end to the rumors about a possible return to Chivas next season because he has a contract with San Jose until 2022.
San Jose Earthquakes are making a late run to book a spot in the 2021 Major League Soccer playoffs and on Saturday they defeated Austin FC 4-3 at the Q2 stadium. Javier ‘Chofis’ López has been crucial for the Californian team in the past two games and this week he scored five goals in two matches.
Almeyda committed to the Earthquakes
The coach of San Jose, Matías Almeyda, was unable to be on the bench for the game against Austin because he was suspended for his actions with officials in the game against Real Salt Lake on 15 September. But the Earthquakes managed to get the three points thanks to a brace from Javier López.
"I am very happy for him. There was great sacrifice in getting him to San Jose and reaching the level he is currently at after going a year and a half without playing," Almeyda told reporters following Saturday's win. "He changed the way he trains and lives football, including his professionalism and calmness.
"He knows that I try to get to know him and advise him. I have committed mistakes in my life, and I don't want him to commit the same mistakes. I want to see him stay the way he is now. This makes me very happy."
San Jose is currently in ninth place with 30 points and a record of 7W-9D-9L. After the match against Austin, Almeyda wanted to put an end to the rumors about a possible return to Chivas next season, because he has a contract with the MLS side until 2022.
“I want to express my love for Chivas, but I have not talked to anyone and I respect the team I am currently managing and the players. I am focused on the San Jose Earthquakes and I am happy here. Also Chivas already has a coach and we should respect him,” said Almeyda.