Matias Almeyda hints at San Jose Earthquakes exit: “I have 10 months before I’m free”

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He went on to give an implicit nod to the big spending happening elsewhere in the league.

“Obviously if you compare it with teams like Toronto, we don’t have such squads like they might. But we’re going to try to compete with every club, and we will work as a team,” he added. “Gregus, Calvo, Monteiro – none of them are coming to be the saviors of San Jose. They’re going to come contribute their grain of sand and all of us have to contribute our grain of sand so San Jose can be a competitive team.”

With 54 goals allowed and 46 scored, the Quakes carried one of the leakiest defenses in MLS last year as opponents carved open their high-tempo pressing system, with their weak home form a particular concern. The former Chivas Guadalajara boss acknowledged that it’s been an area of ​​focus during preseason. A knee issue hampering center back Nathan has complicated that effort, with the Brazilian’s availability for the season opener in doubt.

But the physically-demanding Almeyda sounded a note of optimism in addition to the blunt talk about his future, saying he was “very excited to start the new season” and pursue the “new” that accompany it. Asked whether their coach’s uncertain future was an issue for the players, Quakes player Jackson Yueill was even more bullish.

“This is our fourth year with Matias, and to be honest, the cohesiveness within the group, I don’t think has been stronger,” said the US international, who has spent time in a deeper role almost akin to a center back’s in preseason. “We brought in some really, really good guys, guys with personality, who have been in MLS, who’ve been in a lot of locker rooms. Being here for a while and seeing how San Jose works, I think this is one of the stronger teams that we have.

“So we’re not too focused on the outside noise and what’s happening. Even the coach only speaks about day in and day out; We’re getting ready for the game on Saturday.”

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