USMNT midfielder Luca de la Torre joins MLS newcomer San Diego FC on loan from La Liga side Celta Vigo

Ahead of the club's first MLS season, San Diego FC has signed USMNT veteran Luca de la Torre on an initial loan from Celta Vigo, where he has played since 2022.

The 26-year-old American made 67 appearances for the Spanish side since joining from Heracles in the Netherlands but has made just one La Liga appearance this season after missing time with an injury early in the season.

De la Torre has 24 caps with the USMNT and was part of the 2022 World Cup squad in Qatar. Recently, he played four times for the national team in 2024 but hasn't featured since September under then-interim coach Mikey Varas, who will be his new coach with San Diego.

De la Torre, who was born and raised in San Diego, will be a key figure for the expansion side, who continue to fill out their squad ahead of their first season. He joins star winger Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano as a key piece of Varas' puzzle. In addition to Lozano, the club has also signed MLS veterans Andres Reyes, Anibal Godoy, and Emmanuel Boateng, Nottingham Forest product Alex Mighten, and longtime Middlesbrough defender Paddy McNair.

“We’re thrilled to bring Luca home to San Diego,” said SDFC Sporting Director Tyler Heaps. “Luca’s journey – competing in some of the world’s top leagues and representing the USMNT – speaks volumes about his dedication and talent. But what makes this moment truly special is that he’s coming home to represent the city that shaped him. We’re excited for him to connect with our fans and community in a meaningful way and play an important role in our historic inaugural season.”

The 26-year-old midfielder could wind up being a centerpiece for years to come if the club ends up taking up the purchase option included in the loan deal.

De la Torre played for local youth side San Diego Surf during his childhood before moving to England to join the Fulham academy in 2013. The move will be a full-circle moment for the 26-year-old, who returns home.

San Diego FC will open their first MLS season on Feb. 23, when they visit the defending MLS Cup champion LA Galaxy. After that, they'll host St. Louis City SC in their first home match on March 1.