SAN JOSE — The Earthquakes boosted their flagging defense with the signing of Swiss center back Francois Affolter, the team announced Friday.
The move comes when coach Chris Leitch has had to rely on a makeshift backline because of injuries and suspensions. Affolter, who comes to Major League Soccer from FC Luzern of the Swiss Super League, signed a multi-year contract, pending receipt of a work visa and transfer papers approved by international soccer officials.
Affolter, 26, is the fifth European signed by Jesse Fioranelli, a Swiss general manager who is hell bent on reshaping the Quakes in his first season.