Heartbreak for LA Galaxy: Riqui Puig Suffers ACL Injury Days Before MLS Cup

LA Galaxy’s worst fears have come to life, as star midfielder Riqui Puig will miss MLS Cup final after suffering a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament during Galaxy’s Western Conference final match against Seattle Sounders. The former Barcelona player underwent testing on Sunday morning, which confirmed the initial diagnosis.

Riqui Puig suffered an ACL injury during the second half of their game against the Sounders. The 25-year-old incredibly carried on playing and laid on the assist for Dejan Joveljic’s game-winning goal in the 85th minute. However, despite his warrior-like mentality, Puig faces a long road to recovery. The LA Galaxy stated that Puig will undergo surgery on his left knee in an official statement. The club further added, “The LA Galaxy today confirmed that midfielder Riqui Puig suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee and will miss the 2024 MLS Cup presented by Audi on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Dignity Health Sports Park.” 

Riqui Puig has been nothing short of sensational for LA Galaxy this season, spearheading their first MLS Cup final run since 2014. From dazzling performances to clutch moments, he’s been the beating heart of the Galaxy’s resurgence. His brilliance was on full display during their dominant 6-2 triumph over Minnesota United in the playoffs, where Puig’s vision set up a key assist. But just as the final was within touching distance, tragedy struck. After the Galaxy’s victory over the Sounders, an emotional Puig was seen in tears, a sight that left fans fearing the worst. It’s a cruel twist of fate for Puig, whose season deserved to end on the grandest stage. 

The stats only begin to tell his story: 17 goals, 12 assists in 33 games, 2.3 key passes per match, and 15 big chances created. Whether splitting defenses with his pinpoint passing or delivering when it mattered most, Puig’s impact was undeniable. He wasn’t just the architect of the Galaxy’s attack; he was their leader, their inspiration. Now, as the Galaxy prepare for the MLS Cup final, they’ll do so without their talisman. On Sunday, Riqui Puig addressed fans for the first time since his devastating injury, sharing an update on social media. “Today begins a new challenge,” Puig wrote. “I will be off the pitch for several months, but am already looking towards and motivated to return stronger than ever and ready to continue making history in this club. Thank you to everyone for your messages of support and love; they truly give me strength to tackle this recovery. I’m so proud of how hard we’ve fought to get here, and I know my teammates will give their all to bring the trophy home.” 

Now, LA Galaxy are gearing up for a showdown with the New York Red Bulls at the Dignity Health Sports Park, marking their first MLS Cup final appearance since 2014. That year, they triumphed over the New England Revolution to claim their record-breaking sixth MLS Cup title. Now, nearly a decade later, the Galaxy have their sights set on adding another star to their storied legacy, this time in front of their passionate home crowd.  

Also Read: Bad News For Bayern Munich as Harry Kane Sidelined For the “Time Being” With a Minor Hamstring Tear