SAN DIEGO — Mexico international Hirving “Chucky” Lozano has been excluded from the gameday roster for San Diego FC as they prepare for their inaugural MLS playoff match, following reports of a locker room dispute.
The home playoff clash against the Portland Timbers on Sunday marks the second consecutive match Lozano has missed, as confirmed by head coach Mikey Varas.
After last week’s 4-0 victory against the Timbers on the final day of the regular season, Varas mentioned that the expansion team was addressing “a situation we’re dealing with internally” regarding Lozano.
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As Sunday’s playoff debut approaches for the expansion club, Varas stated, “we don’t know” when asked if the Designated Player would play at Snapdragon Stadium.
“His actions and interactions will determine that, but he’s fully committed and showing a great response,” the head coach added on Friday, noting that Lozano has been actively participating in team training.
According to a report from The Athletic, Lozano was involved in a verbal disagreement earlier this month after being substituted at halftime during a match against the Houston Dynamo.
In response to the report, the winger issued an apology via social media.
“I’m a passionate and competitive individual who always strives to give my best for the team,” he wrote on Instagram. “At times, that same intensity can lead to reactions that don’t represent who I am or the respect I have for those around me.
“I didn’t respond appropriately, and I’ve taken responsibility, addressed the situation, and moved on.”
Although he won’t be on the gameday roster, Lozano plans to attend the game at Snapdragon Stadium on Sunday.
In his debut season in MLS, Lozano has scored nine goals and provided ten assists in 27 matches. After finishing the regular season at the top of the Western Conference, San Diego will face Portland in a best-of-three series, marking the club’s first postseason appearance.
Varas, a finalist for Coach of the Year, has led San Diego to set MLS records for the most wins (19) and most points (63) achieved by an expansion team.