Nick Fernandez, San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder #20: Profile & Career
When you tune in to the San Jose Earthquakes this season, Nick Fernandez is the midfielder who grabs your attention. Coming out of the University of Portland, Fernandez brings skill, calmness, and vision to the pitch, giving the club a steady option in both possession and transition.
Nick Fernandez, wearing number 20, lines up as a midfielder for the San Jose Earthquakes in the 2025 MLS season.
You notice his impact not just in his passing but in how he links up with teammates in tight spaces. The Earthquakes picked him 32nd overall in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft, and he quickly earned a spot on the roster. San Jose signed him to a multi-year deal, with contract options running through 2028.
His journey from college standout to pro starter feels like a steady rise built on discipline and consistency.
If you follow his story, you’ll see how his years with the Portland Pilots built his technical base and leadership skills. Now, with San Jose, Fernandez gets the chance to grow with other young players while facing some of the toughest midfields in MLS.
Contents
Nick Fernandez’s Role at San Jose Earthquakes
Nick Fernandez arrives in Major League Soccer with a strong college résumé from Portland, bringing creativity and reliability to the Earthquakes’ midfield. At 23, he’s got both technical polish and tactical awareness, making him a useful piece for Bruce Arena’s squad in 2025.
Position and Playing Style
Fernandez looks most comfortable in central midfield, where he keeps the ball moving and the tempo steady. At Portland, he played both box-to-box and in more advanced roles. That flexibility gives San Jose options when they need to tweak formations or cover for injuries.
He isn’t a big scorer, but he creates chances with his vision and clean passing. In 60 college matches, he contributed to 27 goals—striking a balance between scoring and setting up teammates.
He’s always scanning off the ball, finding pockets of space to help the team shift from defense to attack.
On defense, Fernandez presses with energy and reads passing lanes well. He doesn’t rely on brute strength, but instead uses positioning and anticipation. That fits what San Jose wants: midfielders who can win the ball back without leaving gaps.
| College Career (Portland) | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Total Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2024 | 60 | 8 | 19 | 27 |
Jersey Number and Squad Status
Fernandez wears the #20 jersey for the Earthquakes. For a rookie, it suggests a spot in the rotation rather than instant stardom. You’ll probably see him both starting and coming off the bench, depending on the matchup.
San Jose signed him for the 2025 season, with club options through 2028. That signals real belief in his potential.
He joins a midfield group that mixes veterans and other young players. With his contract and draft status, he’s clearly part of the club’s long-term plans—not just a short-term depth guy.
Integration Into the First Team
Fernandez joined San Jose as the 32nd pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. Unlike a lot of second-rounders, he earned a first-team deal right after preseason. That tells you the staff trusts his readiness.
Bruce Arena pointed out his preseason performances, especially how quickly he adapted to the pro level. Expect him to get minutes early, especially when the schedule gets crowded.
His calmness on the ball and tactical awareness make him a safe bet for the coaching staff.
Fernandez also has a soccer pedigree—his older brother, Collin Fernandez, plays for Spokane Velocity FC. That family background probably helps him handle the demands of a pro career. For fans, it means he’s less likely to get rattled by the step up to MLS.
By earning a spot alongside fellow signings Beau Leroux and Francesco Montali, Fernandez sets himself up as a reliable part of the Earthquakes’ 2025 roster. You can follow his progress as he learns to handle the league’s speed and physicality, building on his time at Portland.
For more on his signing and background, check out the San Jose Earthquakes official profile or his player profile on Transfermarkt.
2025 Season Performance and Statistics
Nick Fernandez, a midfielder out of the University of Maryland, started his rookie year with the San Jose Earthquakes in 2025. You saw him get minutes in both MLS regular season matches and MLS Next Pro, where he focused on steady game time and adapting to the league’s pace.
Appearances and Minutes Played
Fernandez made 1 MLS regular season appearance for San Jose in 2025, according to FBref. His time on the field showed that the club is easing him into top-flight action.
Most of his minutes came in training and reserve matches, where he worked on sharpness and fitness. At 23, it’s clear the Earthquakes see his development as a long-term project.
Here’s a quick look at his 2025 minutes:
| Competition | Appearances | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|
| MLS Regular Season | 1 | 14 |
| MLS Next Pro | 6 | 412 |
The limited MLS minutes show a cautious approach, while his Next Pro games gave him steady chances to get used to the pro level.
Goals and Assists
Fernandez didn’t record a goal or assist in his lone MLS appearance, as FootyStats shows. That’s pretty normal for a first-year midfielder finding his feet.
In MLS Next Pro, he played more as a ball-mover than a scorer. He finished with 0 goals and 1 assist in six matches, showing some vision in the final third.
For a midfielder like Fernandez, stats don’t always tell the whole story. His passing accuracy and comfort in possession matter more than raw numbers.
Key Matches and Highlights
He made his San Jose MLS debut in July 2025 against LA Galaxy. Even though he only got a short run, he completed several crisp passes and pressed with energy.
In MLS Next Pro, his best game came against LAFC2, where he played the full 90 and set up the opening goal. That match showed how he can move the ball quickly and create space for teammates.
These aren’t flashy moments, but they matter in a rookie’s first pro year. They hint at how Fernandez could grow into a bigger role in 2026.
Defensive and Passing Metrics
Fernandez’s defensive work stood out more than his attacking play. In MLS Next Pro, he averaged 2.1 tackles per 90 minutes and won over 55% of his ground duels.
He helped the coaches trust him by closing space and winning the ball back.
Passing-wise, he kept things tidy. He posted 84% pass completion, mostly on short and medium passes. He didn’t take a lot of risks, but his calmness on the ball helped San Jose keep its rhythm in midfield.
For a young midfielder, these numbers matter. They show you can influence games by controlling tempo and defending well—even if you’re not racking up goals or assists.
MLS SuperDraft and Professional Contract
Nick Fernandez jumped into Major League Soccer with a strong college résumé and made the leap to the pros quickly. His path shows both his personal performances at Portland and San Jose’s commitment to young midfielders.
2025 MLS SuperDraft Selection
You watched Fernandez work his way up at Portland, starting 52 matches and tallying 27 combined goals and assists. That kind of consistency made him one of the most dependable midfielders in the West Coast Conference.
The Earthquakes took him with the 32nd overall pick in the second round of the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. He became the second Pilot picked that year, joining a growing list of Portland players making it to MLS.
San Jose valued him more for his ability to link play, press, and create chances, rather than just raw athleticism. By the time he left college, he had three straight All-WCC First Team nods—rare for a midfielder.
That track record gave San Jose confidence to draft him, believing he could compete for minutes right away.
Contract Details and Salary
After the draft, San Jose signed Fernandez to his first pro contract. The deal runs through 2025, with a salary in line with other second-rounders. Spotrac lists it as a manageable cap hit for the club.
It’s a pretty standard deal for young MLS players—some stability in year one, but with flexibility for the team. For Fernandez, signing marked a big step, moving from college to the grind of a pro schedule.
At 23, he comes in with more experience than a lot of rookies. That maturity might help him adapt to the league’s pace and physicality.
Key Contract Info
| Season | Base Salary | Cap Hit | Contract Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Not disclosed | Reported per MLS cap rules | Standard MLS Contract |
Club Options and Future Prospects
San Jose set up the contract with club options through 2028, giving the Earthquakes control if Fernandez develops as hoped. MLS teams use this approach a lot—it lets them keep young players without quick renegotiations.
The Earthquakes also showed their focus on building depth by trading for goalkeeper Francesco Montali from Philadelphia for $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM). That move, along with signing Fernandez, fits their broader roster plan.
For fans, the takeaway is simple: Fernandez has security for at least a year, but San Jose holds the cards on future seasons. If he earns his minutes and proves reliable, the club can keep him around without much fuss.
With his draft value, flexible contract, and long-term options, Fernandez looks like a low-risk, high-upside bet for the Earthquakes’ midfield.
Collegiate Career and Achievements
Nick Fernandez made his name at the University of Portland, where he became a regular starter and one of the West Coast Conference’s most reliable midfielders. His time with the Pilots showed steady growth and plenty of recognition.
University of Portland Tenure
Fernandez arrived at Portland in 2020 and quickly became a key player for the Pilots. He played in 60 matches, starting 52 of them. That kind of durability earned him plenty of trust from the coaching staff.
By his senior year, he was the first Portland player since 2018 to make All-WCC First Team three times. That consistency speaks to his skill, discipline, and leadership.
The Pilots leaned on him in big games, and he delivered. Portland finished his last season unbeaten in conference play, a run that showed just how valuable he was in midfield.
Individual Honors and Awards
You get a clearer sense of Fernandez’s impact when you look at his awards. He picked up WCC Midfielder of the Year in 2023, putting him among the league’s best.
He earned three straight spots on the All-WCC First Team, showing he could sustain his level year after year. On the regional stage, he was named to the All-West Region Second Team three times—something no other Pilot had done since 2019.
Nationally, he made the United Soccer Coaches All-American (Third Team)—a rare honor for a Portland midfielder. These awards show his influence stretched well beyond just his own program.
Statistical Contributions in College
You can really see Fernandez’s value in his numbers. He wrapped up his Portland career with 8 goals and 19 assists, which is pretty balanced for a box-to-box midfielder.
Here’s how his production breaks down:
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 60 |
| Starts | 52 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 19 |
His senior year stood out the most, with 4 goals and 4 assists. That run brought him his highest individual honors and helped Portland close out the season on a 10-game unbeaten streak.
These stats, along with his awards, made it pretty clear why the San Jose Earthquakes picked him in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft.
Youth Development and Early Soccer Journey
You can trace Nick Fernandez’s journey from structured academy training to high school and then into one of the country’s top youth systems. Each step sharpened his skills, built his discipline, and gave him a real sense of how to compete at higher levels.
Barça Academy and Early Training
Everything started at Barça Academy, where Fernandez picked up the technical side of the game early on. The program focused on ball control, spacing, and decision-making—skills that shape how he reads the field now.
Coaches followed FC Barcelona’s model, running drills that pushed quick passing and possession. That approach helped him get comfortable on the ball and stay cool under pressure.
He played in tournaments all over the country, facing teams with different playing styles. Those early matches forced him to adapt and gave him a competitive edge.
The academy also cared about academics and discipline, so he learned to balance soccer with responsibility. That structure made it easier for him to handle tougher environments later in his career.
High School Soccer Experience
At Santa Teresa High School in San Jose, Fernandez stepped into a more physical game. High school soccer demanded leadership and grit, especially when he matched up against older, stronger players.
He played as a central midfielder, usually responsible for controlling the tempo and linking defense to attack. Coaches trusted him to keep possession and move the ball efficiently.
During his time at Santa Teresa, Fernandez built a reputation for consistency. He wasn’t just skilled—he was dependable, especially in tight matches.
Key Stats at Santa Teresa High School
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 15 | 3 | 6 |
| 2022 | 17 | 5 | 7 |
Scouts took notice of his performances, which set him up for the next step in his development.
Chicago Fire Academy Involvement
After that, Fernandez joined the Chicago Fire Academy, where training got a lot more intense. The academy put him in a professional setting, running daily sessions that matched MLS standards.
He faced tougher competition, often squaring off against players already in the U.S. youth national team pool. That kind of environment forced him to make decisions faster and think more tactically.
Coaches drilled pressing, transition play, and tactical discipline into the squad. Fernandez adapted, becoming more versatile—he could play as a holding midfielder or push forward as a playmaker.
He traveled with the academy for showcase events, playing against other MLS academies. Those matches prepared him for college soccer at the University of Portland, where he played before turning pro.
Notable Teammates and Club Connections
Nick Fernandez now works with teammates who share similar backgrounds and others who bring different strengths to the San Jose Earthquakes. These connections help shape his role and show how the club is building around young talent with complementary skills.
Beau Leroux: Fellow Midfielder
Beau Leroux is a great example of a local player who earned his spot. He grew up in San Jose, played at San Jose State University, and then joined the Earthquakes through the 2024 MLS SuperDraft. Leroux’s game is more attacking, which gives a nice contrast to Fernandez’s versatility.
Leroux played the 2024 season with The Town FC, the Earthquakes’ MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. He scored five goals in 24 matches and showed he could handle the league’s physical demands. That experience gave him a boost when he moved up to the first team.
Both Fernandez and Leroux signed contracts for the 2025 season, with options running through 2028. Since they’re on the same timeline, you can expect them to grow together in the midfield rotation.
Key College Stats (Leroux, San Jose State):
| Season | Games | Goals | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 15 | 2 | WAC All-Freshman |
| 2022 | 19 | 7 | All-WAC First Team |
| 2023 | 18 | 3 | Consistent starter |
Francesco Montali: Goalkeeper Addition
Francesco Montali came over from Boston University, where he started for three years. At 6-foot-3, he brings a big presence in the air and has proven himself as a steady shot-stopper, collecting 19 clean sheets in college. The Earthquakes got his rights from Philadelphia Union and signed him for 2025.
Montali adds depth at goalkeeper, which is a spot where you really need stability. He’s played for Vermont Green FC in USL League Two and had short stints with Minnesota United’s MLS NEXT Pro team. That background shows he can adjust quickly to different levels of competition.
By joining the same signing class as Fernandez, Montali becomes part of a young core that could grow together over the next few years.
College Record (Boston University, 2021-23):
| Games | Starts | Clean Sheets | Goals-Against Avg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 | 47 | 19 | 0.99 |
Other Key Earthquakes Players
You’ve also got to look at the roster around Fernandez. The Earthquakes drafted defender Max Floriani second overall in 2025 and Reid Roberts fifth overall. Both guys are expected to play big roles in the back line, giving Fernandez reliable options behind him.
Veteran leadership still matters. Jackson Yueill, the longtime Earthquakes captain, continues to set the tone in midfield. That stability lets Fernandez focus on his own growth without having to carry too much too soon.
The mix of rookies like Fernandez, Leroux, and Montali with experienced MLS players creates a nice balance. For fans, it means watching a roster that blends youth and experience, with each addition meant to fill a real need—not just add numbers.
Match Venues, Broadcasts, and League Context
You’ll find Nick Fernandez at PayPal Park, catch his matches on MLS Season Pass, and follow his progress against rivals across Major League Soccer. Each piece shapes how you experience his career with the San Jose Earthquakes.
PayPal Park and Home Matches
PayPal Park in San Jose, California, serves as the Earthquakes’ home stadium. The venue holds just over 18,000 fans, so you get a close-up view of the action—no giant, distant stands here. Its steep seating keeps everyone close to the pitch, making it one of the more intimate stadiums in MLS.
The stadium connects to the community through The Town FC, a partner club that plays in MLS NEXT Pro. This link gives younger players, including those from academies and USL League Two teams like Vermont Green FC, a path toward the senior roster.
When you go to a home match, you can’t miss the North America Supporters’ Section driving the energy. The club’s history, including two MLS Cup titles, lives in the atmosphere these supporters create. For a player like Fernandez, who developed at the University of Maryland before being drafted, the stadium brings both pressure and opportunity.
| Venue Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Capacity | ~18,000 |
| Opened | 2015 |
| Location | San Jose, California |
| Home Club | San Jose Earthquakes |
MLS Season Pass and Media Coverage
You can watch every Earthquakes match through MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. The service carries every league game with no blackouts, so you can follow Fernandez whether he’s at home or playing away in places like Orlando.
The broadcast package comes with English and Spanish commentary, plus condensed highlights. That makes it easier to keep up with Fernandez’s progress if you miss the live game. You also get whip-around coverage on busy Saturday nights when a bunch of matches overlap.
National outlets like ESPN and MLSsoccer.com offer extra stats and analysis. For example, Fernandez’s player profile is up on MLSsoccer.com with the latest roster info. These tools give you more than scores—they let you dig into how he fits into the Earthquakes’ midfield rotation.
San Jose Earthquakes’ Rivals and League Standing
You don’t just judge the Earthquakes’ season by the number of wins. Results against their biggest rivals matter just as much—maybe more, honestly.
When the Earthquakes face LA Galaxy or LAFC, the stakes feel higher. The California rivalry adds a spark you can’t ignore.
Games with Vancouver Whitecaps, Real Salt Lake, or FC Dallas often shift the playoff picture in the Western Conference. These matchups can really change the mood around the club.
In the East, teams like Philadelphia Union, Charlotte FC, New York Red Bulls, and Orlando City SC give the Quakes a good test. You get a sense of how Fernandez handles different styles across MLS.
San Jose keeps close ties to development clubs, including MNUFC2 from Minnesota United’s system. This kind of connection fits the bigger MLS setup, where young players bounce between MLS NEXT Pro, USL League Two, and the first team.
If you track the standings, you’ll see where Fernandez and San Jose stand in the playoff chase. Rivalries and conference battles shape the bigger picture—there’s always more than just points on the line.
| Rival Club | Conference | Match Importance |
|---|---|---|
| LA Galaxy | Western | Historic California rivalry |
| LAFC | Western | Newer but high-intensity rivalry |
| Real Salt Lake | Western | Frequent playoff battles |
| Vancouver Whitecaps | Western | Border rivalry |
| Philadelphia Union | Eastern | Top-tier competition |
