The fans are back and there is an excitement and buzz surrounding the new season and Opening Day for the Galaxy.
Is this the year, the Galaxy returns to a major factor in the Western Conference and Major League Soccer? That’s just one of the question facing the club as the 2024 season nears kickoff Sunday against Inter Miami CF and international icon Lionel Messi.
Here is our look at the biggest questions facing the Galaxy.
1. Can they defend?
It’s a simple question, but the answer will determine if they’re able to be a contender. Last season, the Galaxy allowed an astonishing 67 goals, tying the 2017 team for the most allowed in team history …and yes, 2017 is another season the club would like to forget. Defending doesn’t solely fall on the defenders and the backline, but we’ll take a look at the back four at this and then transition to the goalkeeping situation. The Galaxy brought in World Cup veteran Maya Yoshida late last season. This offseason, they acquired fellow Japanese International Miki Yamane. That’s two pieces in place. Julian Aude went through the ups and downs last season as a 19-year-old defender in MLS, struggling with the physicality of the league. The Argentine made 22 appearances last season. The Galaxy was hoping to have Jalen Neal paired with Yoshida at center back, but Neal has been slowed in recovering from a hernia surgery last season. Neal is still facing up to a five-week recovery. On Wednesday, the club waived center back Chris Mavinga, so as of now, it could be either Eric Zavaleta or Martin Caceres pairing with Yoshida. A Yoshida-Caceres pairing, while certainly experienced, will also be a combined 71 years old. All eyes will be on this group this season. John Nelson joined the club on a two-year contract and also figures into the mix.
2. Who starts at goalkeeper?
The answer to that question was answered Thursday when the club parted ways with Jonathan Bond, who was the starter the past three seasons. That leaves newly…
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