2016 MLS SuperDraft: What do the LA Galaxy Need?
- Updated: January 13, 2016
In 2015, the LA Galaxy made roster changes with an offensive mindset. The team acquired Sebastian Lletget, Steven Gerrard, and Giovani dos Santos. It also lost Landon Donovan, Stefan Ishizaki, and Jaime Penedo. LA later suffered defensively. In the 2016 MLS SuperDraft, I think the Galaxy needs to focus on defenders and defensive midfielders.
Omar Gonzalez failed to support his teammates. His mistakes led to numerous goals for opponents. Leonardo earned the team’s 2015 Defender of the Year award. No other defensive performance eclipsed him. He grew tremendously this past year and replaced A.J. DeLaGarza as a center back. Yet, it shows how poorly the Galaxy defense played all season.
I might have chosen Robbie Rogers instead of Leonardo. Rogers, in my opinion, played more consistently when not bothered by injuries. He also partnered with Sebastian Lletget to contribute to offensive maneuvers. The best part—Rogers has only been a defender since 2014. I think he has shown more improvement than Leonardo in the Brazilian’s (now) six years with the club.
For 2016, LA needs to bolster its defense. Omar Gonzalez went to Pachuca, and Juninho left for Tijuana in Mexico. Omar was a center back while Juninho played as a central midfielder. Yet, he also contributed to the defense. The huge roles must be filled—without a solid defensive, midfielders and forwards cannot create goal-scoring opportunities.
Rumors hint at the Galaxy signing international players. They are Nigel De Jong (Milan midfielder), Joleon Lescott (Aston Villa defender), Jelle Van Damme (Standard Liege defender), and Ashley Cole (Roma defender). Each is over 30 years old and towards the end of their career. I’m not pleased with these possibilities. They are short-term contracts, and the Galaxy needs long-term. It should train younger players.
I am happy though that LA signed Jeff Larentowicz. He plays as a central defender or midfielder. He could fill Juninho’s spot. I have watched Larentowicz play since his debut with the New England Revolution in 2005. He is a valuable contribution, even with his age.
Bruce signed Dave Romney in August and Daniel Steres in December from the LA Galaxy II. I think these two have long-term chances with the club. They are young and inexperienced in regards to the senior club. Yet, they will gain valuable time in practice and as reserves.
Romney and Steres’ signings show a better direction for the club defensively than the rumored international players. I hope Bruce utilizes the 2016 SuperDraft well. He should sign at least one young defender or defensive midfielder to train and eventually promote to the LA Galaxy.
Stay with us at Calisportsnews.com as we will keep you up-to-date on all things LA Galaxy and the rest of the LA sports teams! All Cali, all the time!
Related Posts
About Patrick Salkeld
