Matias Almeyda parts ways with San Jose Earthquakes

The San Jose Earthquakes has officially parted ways with Argentine head coach Matias Almeyda after four years in charge.

“Over the past four years, Matias has given everything he has to our club, and we recognize the efforts he made,” Earthquakes managing partner John Fisher said in a release.

San Jose have appointed Alex Covelo as interim head coach.

“I have had a chance to get to know him and his family during his time here, and we really appreciate what they have done for the Earthquakes. We wish them well in the future.”

The decision was made hours after the Earthquakes held Nashville SC to a 2-2 draw to extend their winless streak to seven, according to ESPN. His dismissal closes out his three-plus season at the realm of San Jose with a record of 31-42-25. 

He first joined at the end of the 2018 regular season, with the hopes of turning the team around. But while the team may have enjoyed some great moments under Almeyda, the Earthquakes lacked consistency. 

The Earthquakes enjoyed a surprising MLS Cup playoffs run in 2020, reaching the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Minnesota United. But in 2019, and 2021 the team concluded the Major League Soccer season way below the postseason requirements. 

This year, the Earthquakes endured their worst start to a regular season, going into week 7 as the only winless team in the league. They sit last in the Western Conference table with a shocking three points to its name.

It seems the San Jose Earthquakes have had it with Almeyda. But he may be wanted elsewhere. 

Several reports are linking the head coach with his former Liga MX side Chivas, who are also currently dealing with a change of leadership. The Mexican side fired manager Marcelo Leano four days ago, citing a poor start to the season as the primary reason for his departure.

He previously led the team from 2015 to 2018, leading Chivas to the Concacaf Champions League trophy during his last year.