For LA Galaxy star Riqui Puig, winning the MLS Cup 2024 presented by Audi is only the beginning. Despite missing the 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls due to an ACL tear, the Spanish midfielder believes the Galaxy are on the path to building another dynasty.
The Galaxy’s latest MLS Cup victory marked their sixth overall and their first in a decade. Puig, speaking during the club’s championship celebration, expressed his confidence in the team: “I think we’re the best team in Major League Soccer. We need more room to add another star [on the crest], but this doesn’t end here. We can make history.”
Puig, who contributed 36 goals (17 goals, 19 assists) across all competitions in 2024, is determined to secure his place alongside Galaxy legends like David Beckham and Landon Donovan at Dignity Health Sports Park’s Legends Plaza. “I think another statue belongs here,” Puig boldly declared. “We have to win more MLS Cups, Concacaf Champions Cups, and we’re ready with this amazing group.”
A key player in the Galaxy’s offensive success, Puig played a central role alongside Dejan Joveljić, Gabriel Pec, and Joseph Paintsil. Together, they made history as the first MLS team with four players each scoring 10 or more goals in a season. Puig hopes that the core group remains intact for next year, although Pec and Joveljić have attracted transfer interest, with Pec being linked to Premier League clubs.
Despite the transfer rumors, Puig praised Pec, who won the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year award, calling him the true MVP of the season.
As Puig recovers from his ACL injury, which he sustained during the Western Conference Final against Seattle Sounders FC, he remains committed to the Galaxy’s future. He also expressed his gratitude to the fans, acknowledging their unwavering support in a season where the team went undefeated at home. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he said.
Puig’s vision is clear: the Galaxy are just getting started, with bigger goals on the horizon.
