Today marks Ján Greguš’s 35th birthday, a milestone that finds the veteran midfielder at a crossroads as he evaluates the final chapter of a storied professional career.
Every club has its metronome—the player who dictates the tempo, calms the chaos, and ensures the transition from defense to attack is seamless. For Minnesota United’s move from expansion-era struggles to becoming a perennial playoff contender, that metronome was Ján Greguš.
Known affectionately as “The Goose,” Greguš was the third Designated Player in club history and the tactical anchor during some of the Loons’ most iconic early moments. As the 2026 season begins, let’s look back at his time in Saint Paul and where his journey has taken him since.
The Loons years (2019-2021, 2023)
Ján Greguš arrived in Minnesota in 2019 from FC Copenhagen, bringing a level of European pedigree and tactical sophistication that the young club desperately needed. His impact was immediate. In his debut season, he recorded 12 assists and helped lead the Loons to their first-ever U.S. Open Cup Final and their first-ever MLS Cup Playoff appearance.
His signature was his right foot—a weapon capable of delivering pinpoint corners or unleashing low, driven strikes from 30 yards out. Alongside Osvaldo Alonso, Greguš formed one of the most balanced midfields in the league, providing the stability that allowed the likes of Darwin Quintero and Kevin Molino to flourish.
Though he moved on after the 2021 season, Greguš made a surprise, nostalgic return to Allianz Field in late 2023. Acquired via trade to help a depleted midfield, he stepped back onto the pitch as if he had never left, providing veteran leadership and a steady hand during a difficult stretch for the club.
Life after Saint Paul
Since his initial departure from Minnesota, Greguš has become a respected veteran journeyman within Major League Soccer:
- San Jose Earthquakes (2022): Greguš spent a season in Northern California, where he remained a consistent contributor, making 27 appearances and providing six assists for the Quakes.
- Nashville SC (2023): He had a brief stint in Music City before his mid-season trade back to Minnesota, proving his value as a reliable tactical piece in the league.
- Houston Dynamo FC (2024): After his second stint with the Loons concluded, Greguš signed with Houston. He served primarily as a rotation player during their heavy schedule, contributing in both MLS play and the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Free agency
As of January 2026, Ján Greguš is currently a free agent. Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, Houston Dynamo FC declined his contract option, and the 35-year-old midfielder has spent the early window of the new year evaluating his next move.
At this stage of his career, Greguš finds himself at a crossroads. With 126 MLS appearances, 24 assists, and 36 caps for the Slovakian National Team under his belt, he possesses a wealth of experience. Whether he searches for one final professional contract in MLS, looks for a “sunset” season back home in the Slovakian Super Liga, or begins the transition into coaching, his legacy as a pioneer of the Loons’ midfield is firmly established.
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