A shining star for Los Angeles Galaxy sent packing in latest transaction

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·20 décembre 2024

A shining star for Los Angeles Galaxy sent packing in latest transaction

Many new it would have been a tougher challenge for the Los Angeles Galaxy to win the MLS Cup Finals without their star player, Riqui Puig. The New York Red Bulls and their hopes to upset the Western Conference Finalists increased when the Spanish midfielder went down after suffering an ACL tear.

Greg Vanney, the Head Coach of the LA Galaxy, was blessed with a deep roster that could sustain an injury like that. Especially if it was on the league's grandest stage.

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Midfielder Gaston Brugman's name was called as he joined the field in the 2024 MLS Cup Finals for the Galaxy's Starting XI. He had the key assist that lead to Joseph Paintsil scoring in the opening minutes.

During the MLS Expansion Draft, the Los Angeles Galaxy listed eleven players as available for the newest member of the league, San Diego FC, to select. Brugman, among others, were unprotected. No one from the six-time champions was selected by San Diego.

"Sean brings a wealth of experience, as an MLS homegrown player, former captain, and two-time Supporters' Shield winner, that will greatly benefit the Galaxy roster on and of the pitch."Will Kuntz, LA Galaxy General Manager

Brugman became available once more. On Thursday, he was a part of a trade with Nashville SC that brought midfielder Sean Davis.

The 32-year-old was named the 2024 MLS Cup Finals MVP. In his three seasons (including playoffs) for the Galaxy, Brugman scored five goals and recorded six assists.

One of many players from Uruguay in the league, the Los Angeles Galaxy moved on from his talents for Davis. The newly acquired midfielder brings playoff experience as he was a part of Nashville SC during the 2022 and 2023 postseason with the team.

While the move might come as shock to many, Davis has an impressive resume to boast. He was a part of the Red Bulls' seasons in 2015 and 2018 that saw them win the Supporters' Shield. In 2018, the England native tallied eight assists in 32 games for New York.

"To maintain a championship-caliber roster in Major League Soccer, teams are often forced to make difficult contractual decisions, and today's trade is evidence of that."Will Kuntz, LA Galaxy General Manager

While the Los Angeles Galaxy are not scheduled to play Nashville during the regular season, the team will face Davis's other former team. The New York Red Bulls will host the Galaxy on May 10th in a rematch of the most recent MLS Cup Finals.

If Vanney continues to utilize the 4-3-3 formation on the field, Davis would fit nicely in the fold. The LA Galaxy set a record for most goals scored (18) in any postseason.