'A merged league with Mexico would be beautiful and exciting' - San Diego FC's Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano would be open to a potential MLS-Liga MX merger

San Diego FC star and Mexico international Hirving Lozano says he’s open to the idea of a combined Liga MX and MLS competition, believing it would raise the level of play and give U.S. teams the chance to compete in the type of stadiums and atmospheres found in Mexico.

"Having a merged league with Mexico would be beautiful and exciting," Lozano told ESPN. "For MLS clubs, going to play in Mexico would be important for the league. It would be an extra boost for growth because you face different environments, and it would be great for MLS.”

Since leaving Mexico, Lozano has seen firsthand how much MLS has evolved. 

"The growth has been huge. Now that I’m here, I see how competitive it is. It will keep growing - they have the infrastructure for it, and it’s something special,” the winger said.

In his first season with MLS's latest expansion franchise, San Diego FC, Lozano has been at the heart of the team’s attack, scoring eight goals and providing six assists in 21 matches under head coach Mikey Varas. 

"From the moment I learned about San Diego’s project, I knew exactly what it was about and accepted that responsibility," he said. Being the leader was something extra they gave me, and I hope to stay here for many years. We’re happy with what we’re building.”

The former Pachuca academy product hopes to carry his club form into the Mexican national team. He hasn’t worn El Tri’s jersey since the 2024 Nations League, but he’s determined to convince manager Javier Aguirre ahead of the 2026 World Cup. 

“There’s always competition in the national team because they call the best. My job is to stay at my highest level, show on the pitch what I can do, and prove we can achieve great things - that’s vital for the coach to notice you," he said. 

Lozano has also played a crucial role in helping San Diego climb to the top of the Western Conference table in their debut season. This Sunday, they’ll face the San Jose Earthquakes in what’s quickly becoming MLS’s newest California rivalry.