Today was the MLS SuperDraft which is always exciting, but before I jump into that, I need to catch everyone up on the latest LA Galaxy news.
JUNINHO IS BACK!!!! Yes it’s true. The Samba King is back and has signed a multi-year deal with the LA Galaxy. Mike Magee and Robbie Keane also extended their contracts. All of this is exciting news! LA also have a new goalie coming into the mix, Carlo Cudicini from Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer. Cudicini will likely take the place of starting keeper Josh Saunders. There have also been rumors of Kaka and Lampard joining the Galaxy.
When asked about it Bruce Arena said ,”Those are players that we’ve spoken to.” Who knows what that will actually boil down to, I’ll keep you updated with the latest! In all honesty I am looking forward to this season, but I’m also nervous. There’s nothing like being back-to-back MLS Cup Champions, so it puts a big target on their back. Should be an interesting season. Now, onto the MLS SuperDraft.
With LA Galaxy’s first pick (19th overall) in the MLS SuperDraft, they picked:
Charlie Rugg – Position: Forward
Hometown: Roslindale, MA
Club/College: Boston College; According to Boston College’s Web site, Rugg is ranked fifth all-time in goals, scoring 28. Rugg also became the first Boston College soccer player (in three seasons) to be named to the All-ACC First Team.
My expectations: I do not see much coming from this. He’s a forward, maybe Bruce Arena will try to transition him into a midfielder at some point, but for me it seems as though LA has enough forwards. He could bring an aspect to the game with his speed.
With their second pick LA Galaxy picked:
Kofi Opare – Position: Defender
Hometown: Niagara Falls, Ontario
Club/College: University of Michigan; According to Michigan Soccer’s Web site Opare was named to the College Sports Madness Preseason All-Big Ten squad. He was a four year starter, and raked up 6,411 minutes total game play.
My expectations: In the aspect of defenders, LA is pretty much set. They did not lose anybody, and everyone’s fitness is back to normal (A.J and Omar are taking part in the USMNT camp). Opare was apaprt of the USMNT U-20′s so he does bring some talent and strategy to the game. We’ll just wait to see what comes of this.
With their third and final pick LA Galaxy picked:
Greg Cochrane – Position: Midfielder
Hometown: Holland, PA
Club/College: University of Louisville; transferred to Louisville after two years at Virginia Tech. Started as a midfielder/defender.
My expectations: LA needed another midfielder. He’ll make a good addition to the team, and will hopefully feel some of the void.
P.S- Only 44 days left till MLS First kick!!
