Top 10 LA Galaxy Players of All-Time: The Best from the Best MLS Team
Top 10 LA Galaxy Players of All-Time: The Best from the B...
By Jocelyn Alano July 18, 2024 16:01
One of the most successful and iconic franchises in Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen some of the best players to ever step on a pitch called LA Galaxy home. Here we look at LA Galaxy's top 10 players of all time in detail including career contributions pre and post-joining the club, accolades won during their tenure and the legacy they have left on both team and league alike.
1. Landon Donovan
No discussion of the LA Galaxy's all-time greats would be complete without mentioning the one and only Landon Donovan. Widely regarded as the greatest American soccer player of his generation, Donovan spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Galaxy, where he cemented his status as a true icon. During his 14 seasons with the club, Donovan amassed an astounding 115 goals and 107 assists, leading the Galaxy to five MLS Cup championships. His vision, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his leadership on and off the field was instrumental in the Galaxy's sustained success.
2. David Beckham
When the LA Galaxy signed David Beckham in 2007, it was a seismic moment in the history of American soccer. The English superstar's arrival not only brought global attention to the MLS but also elevated the Galaxy's profile as a premier destination for international talent. During his six seasons in Los Angeles, Beckham showcased his world-class passing ability, set-piece expertise, and unparalleled work ethic, helping the Galaxy win two MLS Cup titles. His impact on the sport in the United States cannot be overstated, as he played a pivotal role in the league's growth and popularity.
3. Robbie Keane
The Irish striker Robbie Keane joined the LA Galaxy in 2011 and immediately made his presence felt, scoring 104 goals and providing 45 assists in 165 appearances. Keane's clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to link up with his teammates made him a constant threat in the opposition's half. He was a key figure in the Galaxy's three MLS Cup victories during his time with the club, cementing his status as one of the greatest foreign imports in MLS history.
4. Zlatan Ibrahimović
When Zlatan Ibrahimović arrived in Los Angeles in 2018, the soccer world took notice. The Swedish superstar's larger-than-life personality and unparalleled skill on the ball captivated Galaxy fans and the broader MLS audience. During his two seasons with the club, Ibrahimović scored 53 goals in 58 appearances, showcasing his incredible goal-scoring prowess and physical dominance. Although his time with the Galaxy was relatively short, Ibrahimović's impact was undeniable, and he cemented his place as one of the most iconic players to ever don the Galaxy jersey.
5. Cobi Jones
Cobi Jones is a true LA Galaxy legend, having spent his entire 12-year professional career with the club. The midfielder was a tireless workhorse on the pitch, known for his relentless work rate, defensive contributions, and ability to create chances for his teammates. Jones is the Galaxy's all-time leader in appearances, with 306 games played, and he was a key figure in the club's early success, helping them win two MLS Cup titles.
6. Edson Buddle
Edson Buddle's two stints with the LA Galaxy (2007-2010, 2012-2013) saw him establish himself as one of the most prolific goal scorers in the club's history. The powerful striker netted 78 goals in 159 appearances for the Galaxy, including a career-high 19 goals in the 2010 season. Buddle's physical presence, clinical finishing, and ability to hold up the ball made him a constant threat to opposing defenses, and he played a crucial role in the Galaxy's MLS Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2012.
7. Sasha Kljestan
Sasha Kljestan's return to the LA Galaxy in 2021 marked a homecoming for the veteran midfielder, who had previously spent his youth career with the club. During his time with the Galaxy, Kljestan has been a consistent and reliable presence in the midfield, orchestrating the team's attacking play with his vision, passing ability, and set-piece expertise. His leadership and experience have been invaluable, and he has played a vital role in the Galaxy's recent resurgence.
9. Giovani dos Santos
Giovani dos Santos' time with the LA Galaxy was marked by flashes of brilliance and frustration. The Mexican international joined the club in 2015 with high expectations, and he delivered on his promise, scoring 27 goals and providing 21 assists in 77 appearances. Dos Santos' technical ability, vision, and goal-scoring prowess made him a constant threat, and he played a crucial role in the Galaxy's MLS Cup triumph in 2016. However, his tenure was also plagued by injuries and inconsistency, which ultimately limited his overall impact on the club.
10. Gyasi Zardes
Gyasi Zardes is a homegrown success story for the LA Galaxy, having risen through the club's youth academy to become a key contributor at the senior level. The American striker's combination of pace, physicality, and goal-scoring ability made him a valuable asset for the Galaxy, and he played a significant role in the club's MLS Cup victories in 2014 and 2016. Zardes' dedication, work ethic, and commitment to the Galaxy's cause have earned him a place among the club's all-time greats.
In the End
The LA Galaxy's rich history is a testament to the incredible talent that has graced the pitch at Dignity Health Sports Park. From global superstars like David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimović to homegrown heroes like Landon Donovan and Gyasi Zardes, the Galaxy have been blessed with an array of exceptional players who have left an indelible mark on the club and the league. As the MLS continues to grow and evolve, the legacy of these top 10 LA Galaxy players will undoubtedly inspire future generations of soccer talent to strive for greatness and cement their own place in the annals of this storied franchise.
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