Michigan Soccer Returns for a New Season
The University of Michigan men’s soccer team opens its 27th season on August 20, hosting Loyola Marymount at 6 p.m. in the U‑M Soccer Stadium as part of International Soccer Night.
Michigan returns 19 letterwinners from last year’s squad, including seniors Will Baker and Joao Paulo Ramos, giving the roster a blend of experience and depth.
The Wolverines will welcome 11 newcomers, among them seven freshmen and four transfers, with the incoming freshman class ranked fourth nationally in the 2026 TopDrawerSoccer rankings and featuring standout names such as Grayson Elmquist and Nico Pendleton.
Head coach Chaka Daley, now in his 15th year, is seven victories away from becoming the program’s all‑time winningest coach, adding a narrative of continuity and ambition.
Adding to the staff, associate head coach Kevin Anderson brings a distinguished coaching pedigree after stints as head coach at Southern Connecticut State and Columbia.
Players to Watch
Big Ten coaches have named Will Baker, Grayson Elmquist and Nico Pendleton as players to watch, recognizing Baker’s leading minutes among outfield players last season and Pendleton’s status as the second Michigan transfer to earn the honor.
Junior goalkeeper Alen Bean, who has been with the program for three seasons, is expected to make his debut between the posts, bringing steady experience to the backline.
Preseason predictions place Michigan fifth in the Big Ten coaches poll, despite the team finishing third in the regular season and reaching the tournament finals for the second straight year.
The upcoming match will mark the third meeting in program history against Loyola Marymount, a series in which Michigan holds a 1‑0‑1 record.