Nick Fernandez
SJE
AM
Shadow Striker
Dec 22, 2001 (24)
Right
5'11"
150 lb
SJ EarthquakesAssist during start
Fernandez assisted once to go with one cross (zero accurate) and three chances created in Saturday's 3-1 win versus Portland Timbers.
Analysis: Fernandez assisted the Earthquakes' second goal during what would be his third start this 2026 season. In each of his three starts, he either scored or assisted, logging one goal and two assists. Though the center attacking midfielder's contribution rate is impressive, whether its excellence continues remains questionable. After all, Niko Tsakiris (groin) being out may indicate why Fernandez logged increased opportunities, which he has alternated between starts and reserve appearances. Once the injured midfielder returns, his in-form teammate's upside may slip.
Substitute option Saturday
Fernandez (undisclosed) is in the starting XI to face Portland Timbers on Saturday.
Analysis: Fernandez had been forced off in a midweek US Open Cup match, but he avoided major consequences and was selected for the meeting with Portland. The midfielder is expected to take part in offensive play in a No. 10 position, with his inclusion leaving a more defensive-minded Ian Harkes on the bench. Fernandez might enjoy significant minutes only while Timo Werner (hamstring) is sidelined, looking to make the most of his chances to improve on his totals of one goal and one assist over 10 appearances so far.
Forced off Wednesday
Fernandez (undisclosed) was forced off in the 72nd minute of Wednesday's 2-0 US Open Cup defeat against Colorado and will be assessed over the coming days to determine the extent of the issue.
Analysis: Fernandez couldn't carry on in the second half due to an undisclosed issue and no further details have been provided yet on the nature of the injury, leaving his availability for Saturday's clash against Portland uncertain. Fernandez has mainly been a bench option this season, so his potential absence would have a limited impact on the starting lineup, with the club monitoring his condition before making any decisions on his involvement at the weekend.
First career MLS goal
Fernandez scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal), two crosses (zero accurate) and one chance created in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to Seattle Sounders FC.
Analysis: Fernandez delivered the most significant moment of his MLS career in Wednesday's 3-2 defeat at Lumen Field, opening the scoring in the second minute by latching onto Nonso Adimabua's intercepted pass at the top left corner of the six-yard box and firing a first-time finish into an open net before the Sounders had time to recover from the early chaos. The central midfielder, who operates as a box-to-box presence in his side and has built a reputation for high-pressing intelligence and late runs into the area, earned the goal his early energy deserved in a match his team ultimately could not hold. Fernandez has recorded one goal and one assist across 9 MLS appearances this season as one of the most consistent midfielders in his side's title-pushing squad.
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