SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that the club has permanently acquired Cristian Espinoza from Spain’s Villarreal CF by way of a club-record transfer fee and signed him to a multi-year Designated Player contract.
“Cristian was a very important player for us this year,” said Earthquakes head coach Matias Almeyda. “His qualities are not easily replicated and I’m happy he will continue with us.”
Espinoza, 24, became the Earthquakes’ first newcomer since 2008 to win the Offensive Player of the Year award after finishing the season with two goals and a team-best 13 assists.