LA Galaxy Dealt Crushing Blow as Riqui Puig's Comeback Takes Devastating Turn—Report
LA Galaxy may face an extended period without star player Riqui Puig, as reports indicate the midfielder is scheduled for knee surgery before the 2026 MLS campaign begins.
The Athletic's Tom Bogert revealed that the 26-year-old will have an operation on the identical knee that required surgery in 2024, following an ACL tear sustained during the 2024 MLS Cup Western Conference final match against Seattle Sounders.
The ex-Barcelona youth product, who could only observe from the sidelines as his team claimed the MLS Cup title that season, remained absent throughout 2025 while recovering from his original ACL injury and subsequent operation. Nevertheless, Puig began participating in certain training activities during July.
Missing their key player, Galaxy endured a difficult start to the campaign, suffering 12 defeats in their opening 16 matches with just four draws before securing their inaugural victory in June. They concluded the season in 14th place within the Western Conference, falling 11 points shy of MLS Cup playoff qualification.
The original recovery plan for Puig targeted a fall 2025 comeback and, should Galaxy have advanced that far, possible participation in the 2025 playoffs. However, the organization chose to keep him sidelined after playoff elimination became certain.
No details have emerged regarding the revised timeline for Puig's comeback, but his absence for another extended stretch could position Galaxy for yet another difficult campaign under head coach Gregg Vanney.
During 2024, Puig emerged as an MLS MVP candidate, netting 13 goals with 15 assists across 39 regular-season contests before contributing four additional goals and three assists in four playoff matches.
LA Galaxy With a Good Offseason
The announcement of Puig's upcoming surgery casts a shadow over what has otherwise been an impressive offseason for Galaxy.
Following a season where they allowed 66 goals as the Western Conference's weakest defensive unit, the club acquired two-time MLS Defender of the Year nominee center back Jakob Glesnes from Supporters' Shield champions Philadelphia Union. They also secured versatile center back and defensive midfielder Justin Haak, formerly of New York City FC, through free agency.
Simultaneously, there's optimism that Joseph Paintsil can maintain the excellent form he displayed with 10 goals and two assists in 25 appearances after missing the previous season's opening. Christian Ramírez, meanwhile, aims to build upon his four goals in 25 outings during his debut campaign with the franchise.
In Puig's absence, Galaxy would lose their midfield engine. Should they seek a replacement, general manager Will Kuntz would need to create salary cap room from his star's $5,125,000 annual contract and identify new talent during the January transfer window.
Galaxy kick off their 2026 MLS regular season on Feb. 22 with a home fixture against New York City FC.