At a Glance
- Riqui Puig undergoes second ACL reconstruction, expected return July 2027
- Puig missed entire 2025 season after first ACL tear
- 17 goals, 20 assists in 36 matches during 2024 season
- Why it matters: Puig’s injury sidelines a key playmaker, impacting LA Galaxy‘s rebuild and MLS dynamics.
Riqui Puig has just had a second anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on his left knee, after missing the entire 2025 season due to a similar injury in late 2024. The Spanish star is projected to rejoin the MLS side for the 2027 season, a setback that could reshape the club’s ambitions.
Injury Timeline and Recovery
Puig first sustained an ACL tear during the 2024 Western Conference Final in Carson, California, where he delivered the game-winning assist in a 1-0 victory over Seattle. He underwent reconstructive surgery in Spain and missed the full 2025 campaign.
A year later, the club performed a second ACL reconstruction on Puig’s left knee, with the procedure completed in Barcelona. The team expects a full recovery, aiming for his return in July 2027.
- First ACL tear: 2024 Western Conference Final
- Surgery in Spain: late 2024
- Missed 2025 season
- Second surgery: 2026 in Barcelona
- Expected return: July 2027
Impact on LA Galaxy
Puig’s 17 goals and 20 assists across 36 matches in 2024 made him a linchpin for the LA Galaxy, who won their sixth MLS Cup without his on-field presence. The club’s 2025 downturn left them seeking fresh talent, adding center-back Jakob Glesnes and pursuing free-agent Justin Haak.
| Season | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 36 | 17 | 20 |
With Puig sidelined, LA Galaxy‘s prospects for a top-tier finish are uncertain, despite new signings.
MLS Outlook
Former MLS player Bradley Wright-Phillips noted that while the U.S. may not win the World Cup, the league can capitalize on the momentum of the 2026 tournament to achieve global success.
Key Takeaways
- Puig’s extended absence highlights the fragility of star players in MLS.
- LA Galaxy‘s rebuild is hampered by the loss of a key playmaker.
- MLS can still aim for global success despite challenges.
Puig’s extended absence underscores the fragility of star players in MLS and the challenges clubs face in maintaining competitive momentum.
