Cristian Espinoza: San Jose's star turns Nashville's missing piece

Cristian Espinoza: San Jose's star turns Nashville's missing pieceBy Justin Ruderman

Nashville SC's Cristian Espinoza: Family, sacrifice & legacy

After seven sensational seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, Cristian Espinoza has finally lifted his first MLS trophy in Nashville with the 2026 Supporters' Shield.

>The 31-year-old Argentinian enjoyed many memorable moments in San Jose, becoming the club's all-time leader in assists while earning two MLS All-Star selections (2023, '25).

>But ahead of the 2026 season, it was time for a change.

>"It was a decision that was pondered for a long time," Espinoza explained in Breakaway presented by AT&T. "It was also about weighing what I wanted for my career, and also weighing up the hardest part for me, the family aspect.

>"My family was comfortable in San Jose and I think that was the hardest part, taking away their comfort, their stability, for something that I perhaps needed and wanted, which was a change. I have no doubt that this great sacrifice is worth it."

>It didn't take long for that choice to pay off, as Espinoza hit the ground running in Nashville, leading the team with 14 assists so far this season.

>Alongside fellow Designated Player attackers Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge, Espinoza forms arguably the league's most fearsome attacking trio, combining for an astonishing 63 goal contributions so far in 2026 while helping Nashville claim their first Supporters' 'Shield.

>With the MLS single-season points record and MLS Cup presented by Audi still within reach, that could spell even more history for Espinoza and the Coyotes.

>"At this point I don't really care [about] my personal numbers in terms of assists or goals," said Espinoza. "I just really want to help the team to be on the next level and to achieve more trophies."

>Espinoza and Nashville continue to chase the MLS single-season points record of 74 set by Inter Miami CF in 2024 when they host the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday night (8:30 pm ET | Apple TV).