The San Jose Earthquakes are hoping for a change in fortunes after their disastrous 2024 season, where the team finished dead last in the MLS table with just 21 points, conceding a staggering league-record 78 goals. Solution? Firm up the defense. And here comes Nick Lima. Back to the club where it all began, the 30-year-old right-back signed a contract through 2026, with an option for 2027.
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Return of the familiar face
This isn't the first time Nick Lima has worn the San Jose Earthquakes jersey. A product of the club's youth system, he played his first spell with the Quakes from 2017 to 2020. In that time, Lima totaled 9 goals and 20 assists across 220 MLS regular-season matches.
After leaving San Jose, Lima played for Austin FC from 2021-2023 and had a brief stint with the New England Revolution in 2024. Now he returns to the Bay Area to be a pillar in a rebuilding phase. Head coach and sporting director Bruce Arena, who knows him well, praised the defender:
His experience in this league and versatility will help strengthen our defense. Nick grew up in the Bay Area and found a lot of success here, having come through the Quakes' system, so he already has a deeper familiarity with the club.
This familiarity is crucial. Bringing in a player who knows the environment, the club, and its culture can speed up the adaptation process, which is essential for a team seeking to rebuild.
The San Jose Earthquakes’ defensive numbers in 2024 were alarming. Conceding 78 goals in a single season is a clear sign that the defensive structure must be completely rebuilt.
Nick Lima brings exactly what the club needs: balance. He can play as a right-back, his natural position, or adapt to other defensive roles, offering more options to head coach Bruce Arena.
Bruce Arena and the Earthquakes rebuild
Nick Lima's arrival is not an isolated move. Since Bruce Arena took over as head coach in November 2024, the San Jose front office has been reinforcing the squad with experienced players who are proven in the league.
Lima is the fourth signing under Arena, joining MLS veterans Dave Romney, Mark-Anthony Kaye, and Ian Harkes. Coincidentally, all three came from the New England Revolution, a team previously coached by Arena.
For Lima, the transfer means something more. To play for a club that gave him a chance to start his career means much more than just another season in MLS. In his own words.
I'm really excited to return to the Bay Area and play for everyone again, especially friends and family. I made great memories with the Quakes in the past, and I'm looking forward to making even better ones. I can't wait to get back to work.