The MLS kicks off the weekend with all the action returning across the league. With exciting matchups such as Orlando City SC vs. Atlanta United FC and Philadelphia Union against Columbus Crew, MLS is preparing for another thrilling matchday of soccer.
However, for some clubs, the good football will have to wait because injuries are leaving key players out of the squad.
That is the case for the San Jose Earthquakes, which will not be able to count on German attacker Timo Werner for tonight’s match against FC Dallas.
It is devastating news for the Quakes, who need to keep winning to remain firmly positioned in the Western Conference.
Why Isn't Timo Werner Not Playing Tonight for the San Jose Earthquakes vs FC Dallas?
The former RB Leipzig player will miss this match due to a lower-body muscle injury, which is unfortunate for his team, as the San Jose Earthquakes currently sit second in its conference with the chance to move into first place if they win and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC lose or draw.
There is currently no set timetable for Werner’s return to the pitch, and the club’s policy is not to rush the player in order to avoid making the injury worse.
The German arrived in January of this year as a gamble by the San Jose Earthquakes in an attempt to replicate the impact that the arrivals of Son Heung-min and Lionel Messi had on the league.
Initially, Timo Werner faced challenges adjusting to his new environment. Recently, though, he has emerged as an essential contributor to the Earthquakes’ offense.
This season, the former Chelsea FC player has appeared in nine matches, scoring four goals and providing three assists.
Nevertheless, this absence represents a major tactical change for the team’s manager, since the other forwards do not possess the same characteristics as the German attacker.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the Soccer section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
