Joining an expansion team is a significant commitment, particularly for a player in the peak of their career. However, Danish midfielder Anders Dreyer has found great success since joining San Diego FC prior to their inaugural match, contributing to 38 goals and earning a spot in the MLS All-Star team while leading the club to dominate the Western Conference.

Dreyer’s accolades include being a finalist for the MVP and winning the MLS Newcomer of the Year Award. The competition for this award has intensified over the years, reflecting the influx of talented players in Major League Soccer. Alongside esteemed finalists like Son Heung-Min and Philip Zinckernagel, Dreyer has outperformed expectations.

After discussions with Head Coach Mikey Varas, Dreyer was assured of his fit within the team’s vision. He stated:

“After the meetings [with Varas], I had a feeling that the way he sees me as a footballer is the way I see myself. In that sense, I think when you have a coach who sees you that way, you see yourself, I think that’s key.”

Navigating through their inaugural season, the San Diego FC front office was strategic, recruiting Dreyer and Hirving Lozano as their first designated players. Their efforts brought immediate success to the club and set an ambitious tone for the new franchise.

Dreyer has also rekindled his international career, representing Denmark again after a lengthy hiatus, showcasing his skills with a remarkable performance, scoring twice in a recent match against Belarus.

As the World Cup approaches, Dreyer anticipates an escalating interest in MLS, remarking:

“I didn’t know the level of the MLS before joining, but I’m surprised in a positive way, and I think, with the World Cup coming in the summer, it will just get more and more attention, and maybe after the World Cup as well, it will grow.”

Dreyer’s success illustrates the positive trajectory of MLS as it enriches the domestic soccer scene in the U.S. and offers a compelling experience for incoming talents.