Who will be San Diego FC’s starting goalkeeper for the 2025 season?

(Photo by MLS)

As 2025 begins, San Diego FC is preparing with great enthusiasm for its debut season in MLS.

Under the direction of Mikey Varas, the club has begun its preseason schedule, with an eye toward establishing a solid foundation to compete in the league.

Additionally, San Diego FC has strengthened its ties with the community, highlighting a significant partnership with Sharp Healthcare that reinforces its commitment to the city.

One of the most intriguing questions for this season is who will be San Diego FC’s starting goalkeeper. With three standout options, the decision will not be easy for the coaching staff.


Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/GettyImages
Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/GettyImages

Pablo Cisniega: The most experienced option

Pablo Cisniega, 29, comes with solid experience, having had a standout 2024 season with San Antonio FC in the USLC.

With 22 games played, Cisniega managed to keep his goal clean on five occasions and conceded 29 goals. His training in Real Sociedad B gives him a solid foundation, which positions him as a strong candidate for the starting lineup.


Quality Sport Images/GettyImages
Quality Sport Images/GettyImages

CJ Dos Santos: The promising future

CJ Dos Santos, 24, brings youth and projection. Although his experience in the Eredivisie was limited.

With only three official games in which he conceded five goals and kept one clean sheet, his training in Benfica B demonstrates his potential to grow and adapt to the demands of the MLS.


Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos/GettyImages
Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos/GettyImages

Jacob Jackson: The young man on the rise

Jacob Jackson, also 24, faced challenges in the 2024 season, where he participated in 10 games, conceding 26 goals and achieving only one clean sheet.

Although he is the least experienced of the group, his presence adds depth to the San Diego FC goal for moments of important rotation.


The final decision will be made by Mikey Varas in the preseason

Considering his experience and recent performance, Pablo Cisniega appears to be the most viable option to take over as San Diego FC’s starting goalkeeper in his debut season.

His proven ability and experience could be instrumental in providing stability for the team in its first foray into MLS.