Gavin Wilkinson, the former president of soccer operations for Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns, has been announced as a consultant for the San Jose Earthquakes, where he will aid roster management under head coach Bruce Arena through the end of the year.
A Controversial Comeback
Wilkinson, 52, guided both the Timbers and Thorns to league titles during his tenure, but his reputation suffered after a 2022 investigation — known as the Yates report — uncovered systemic sexual harassment within the NWSL, leading to his dismissal from the Thorns.
His professional journey also includes a brief appointment as Sporting Kansas City’s sporting director earlier this year, a role that lasted only eight days before the club terminated it amid significant fan opposition.
The Earthquakes plan to launch a search for a permanent general manager to complement Arena’s staff, a move that reflects the club’s intent to stabilize its front office after a season that saw a 4‑2 loss to Cincinnati and a 4‑3 defeat in the MLS All‑Stars match.
While the recent on‑field results have been mixed, the organization hopes Wilkinson’s championship pedigree will translate into a more competitive squad as the MLS season progresses.