In a strategic roster shift, the San Jose Earthquakes have announced the acquisition of three players from the New England Revolution. This transfer involves defender Dave Romney and midfielders Mark-Anthony Kaye and Ian Harkes, aiming to revitalize the Earthquakes’ lineup following a challenging season.
The trade sees the Earthquakes parting with $500,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), which is set to be distributed in 2025 and 2026, along with a 2025 international roster slot to the New England Revolution. This deal reunites the three players with Bruce Arena, the Earthquakes’ new sporting director and head coach, who has previously led the Revolution.
Bruce Arena expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re pleased to be able to add three quality players to our roster. Dave is a proven defender who has excelled in this league, while Ian and Mark-Anthony will provide versatility and valuable experience to our midfield.” This highlights Arena’s strategy to strengthen the Earthquakes’ defense and midfield, reflecting the team’s intent to improve upon their previous last-place finish, where they conceded a record 78 goals.
From New England’s perspective, sporting director Curt Onalfo stated, “We are pleased we reached this agreement with San Jose as it gives our team even greater flexibility under the league’s roster constraints to improve our team with new additions in this window and beyond.” This underscores New England’s focus on creating salary-cap space and embarking on a roster overhaul after a 14th-place finish in the Eastern Conference with the league’s worst goal differential tied with San Jose.
The newly acquired players bring a wealth of experience. Ian Harkes has a notable record with previous MLS seasons across New England and D.C. United, accumulating 5 goals and 6 assists in 69 matches. Additionally, Harkes’s international experience in Scotland with Dundee United adds to his profile.
Mark-Anthony Kaye, a Canadian international, marks his fifth franchise change in the MLS. With prior stints at LAFC, Colorado Rapids, Toronto FC, and New England, Kaye has gathered 15 goals and 26 assists in 169 matches. His accolades include winning the 2019 Supporters’ Shield with LAFC and earning 42 caps for the Canadian National Team.
Dave Romney, joining as a center back, has a robust track record with 8 goals and 14 assists in 232 matches across his time with LA Galaxy, Nashville SC, and New England. Romney’s history of playing under Arena in LA and New England is expected to be an asset in San Jose’s defensive lineup.
The San Jose Earthquakes’ recent acquisitions indicate a proactive approach to addressing past performance issues and aiming for an improved standing in the upcoming season. By bringing in experienced players, the Earthquakes are setting a foundation for a stronger team dynamic and are hopeful for a successful season.
Source: Mlssoccer
