Cowell transfer to Chivas: USMNT forward joins Liga MX power

Cade Cowell has completed a historic transfer from the San Jose Earthquakes to Liga MX power Chivas.

When he steps on the field, Cowell, 20, will be the first active U.S. men’s national team player to represent the Guadalajara-based side.

According to multiple reports, Chivas will pay $4 million for the forward, who will wear the No. 16.

“I’m very thankful for everyone at the Earthquakes, from the coaching staff to the fans, for being there for me and my family every step of the way,” said Cowell in a San Jose news release. “You’ve watched me grow up from my first days in the Quakes Academy and helped push and inspire me to have the success I’ve enjoyed as a Homegrown Player. We’ve shared so many great memories and I’ve built so many lifelong friends that you’ll always have a special place in my heart.”

Forever Black & Blue.

We have transferred homegrown forward Cade Cowell to @Chivas.

Thank you @Cc4Official for your years of dedication from the Academy to the First Team. The #Quakes74 family can’t wait to see you shine in the next step of your journey!

— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) January 16, 2024

Chivas has historically only employed players who were born in Mexico or have Mexican heritage. Cowell was born and raised in the United States, but has Mexican heritage through his mother. Ahead of his impending move to Liga MX, Cowell recently obtained a Mexican passport.

Despite his age, Cowell has already been a regular for four seasons with the Quakes, scoring 10 goals and adding 15 assists across 104 regular-season appearances. Serie A side Bologna reportedly offered €4 million for Cowell last summer, which the Earthquakes rejected.

Now the forward will instead join one of Liga MX’s biggest and best-supported teams, which last month appointed former Boca Juniors and Real Madrid midfielder Fernando Gago as head coach.

Cowell made his USMNT debut in 2021, and has earned eight total caps. He was called into the team’s January roster, but departed camp on Thursday to complete his transfer to Chivas.