Updated

Updated · The Guardian · Jul 8

San Jose Earthquakes Sign 30-Year-Old Scotland Goalkeeper Angus Gunn Through 2029-30

Updated

Updated · The Guardian · Jul 8

San Jose Earthquakes Sign 30-Year-Old Scotland Goalkeeper Angus Gunn Through 2029-30

Q: Why did Scotland's World Cup goalkeeper leave Europe for an American club after the tournament?

Angus Gunn moved to MLS mainly because he needed regular first-team football after a season on the margins in Europe. At Nottingham Forest, his contract expired and he had made only one Premier League appearance, leaving him short of club minutes despite remaining Scotland’s No. 1 through the World Cup. That lack of playing time had already become a concern before the tournament. Reports said Gunn had tried to secure a loan earlier in the year because he wanted to play consistently and protect his international place. For a goalkeeper, match rhythm is especially important, and staying inactive at club level risked undermining his standing with Scotland after the World Cup. San Jose offered what Europe was not clearly providing: a starting opportunity and a long-term role. While there was interest elsewhere, including talk of bigger-name clubs, those options were seen more as backup positions. By joining the Earthquakes as a free agent through the 2029-30 season, Gunn gets a clearer path to playing “week in, week out.” The timing also suited both sides. Gunn arrived immediately after Scotland’s World Cup campaign, and San Jose were in strong playoff position and looking to strengthen in goal. His own comments reflected that logic: he described the World Cup as “an unbelievable experience” and said he was excited to come to San Jose and “show the best version” of himself.

3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 8

Angus Gunn joined San Jose as a free agent, giving the Earthquakes Scotland’s World Cup starting goalkeeper on a deal running through the 2029-30 season.
The 30-year-old previously played for Nottingham Forest and will occupy an international roster slot as San Jose adds experience in goal.
Gunn said the move comes just after his World Cup campaign with Scotland and framed the switch around San Jose’s playoff push.