Nov 21
MLS

Bruno Wilson Announces Departure From San Jose Earthquakes

By
James Trance
Photo By
San Jose Earthquakes

Portuguese Defender Confirms His Earthquakes Chapter Has Come to an End

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Bruno Wilson’s time with the San Jose Earthquakes is officially over. The 27-year-old center back announced across his social media platforms on Saturday that “A chapter comes to an end, but the energy of the fans stays with me. Thank you.” closing out his lone season in MLS.

The club has not yet released an official statement, but Wilson’s post makes his departure clear. After arriving in February 2024 from Portugal, he now becomes the latest roster shift in what is shaping up to be a significant offseason for San Jose.

Photo By San Jose Earthquakes

A Short but Impactful Stint

Wilson joined the Earthquakes as a free-agent signing ahead of the 2024 season, bringing experience from the Portuguese leagues and immediate depth to San Jose’s back line. Despite missing time due to injuries, he became a steady rotational defender, known for his composure on the ball and aerial ability.

His presence provided stability during stretches when San Jose struggled defensively, and teammates frequently highlighted him as a vocal leader within the locker room.

Wilson’s Message to Fans

In his announcement, Wilson thanked the Quakes organization, his teammates, and the fans for the opportunity to play in MLS. He reflected on the challenges of adapting to a new league and a new country but made it clear that the experience was meaningful.

His departure message had the tone of someone who valued his time in San Jose — but was ready for a new chapter.

Photo By Soccer Bay Area

What This Means for the Earthquakes

Wilson’s exit adds another hole to San Jose’s defensive unit, which was already expected to undergo changes this offseason. The Quakes conceded one of the highest goal totals in 2024, and rebuilding the back line is considered a top priority moving into 2025. With Rodrigues already linked to international interest, and other defenders entering option years, Wilson’s departure only increases the urgency for roster reinforcements. Meanwhile, the club is also expected to part ways with Josef Martínez and longtime winger Cristian Espinoza, though neither move has been formally announced by the organization. Their situations add context to the scale of San Jose’s upcoming rebuild, but the headline for now belongs to Wilson — the first confirmed departure and the start of an offseason defined by significant change.

Photo By Maciek Gudrymowicz

What’s Next for Wilson

No next club has been announced, but the timing of his post suggests he is preparing for a move, likely back to Europe or elsewhere in North America. Given his experience in Portugal and MLS, he should attract interest fairly quickly.

The End of a Brief Era

Wilson’s time in San Jose lasted just one season, but his professionalism and composure made an impression on the roster. His announcement marks the beginning of another offseason of transition for the Quakes — and the first confirmed departure of what could be several moves.

Photo By San Jose Earthquakes
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