LA Galaxy midfielder Riqui Puig is set to undergo surgery on his left knee, which he initially injured during the 2024 season. The club confirmed on Friday that Puig experienced a setback in his recovery from an ACL injury while in Barcelona, Spain. This procedure is scheduled for tomorrow.
In an official statement, the club noted, “After consulting with club medical staff and outside specialists, it was determined that he would undergo a procedure tomorrow on his left knee. Details on his recovery timeline will be determined post procedure.” Puig had missed the entirety of the 2025 season due to the injury, but had been aiming for a return this year.
Puig expressed his determination through an Instagram post, stating, “2025 tried to tear me in pieces. 2026 I’m not coming back. I never left.” The situation has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming season, with The Athletic‘s reporter Tom Bogert indicating that Puig’s “2026 is in question.”
Injury Background and Recovery Efforts
The injury occurred during the 2024 Western Conference final against the Seattle Sounders. Although Puig was not placed on the season-ending list at that time, there were hopes he could make a late-season comeback in 2025. Prior to the club’s departure for the offseason, Puig had been ramping up his rehabilitation efforts.
Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney had previously expressed optimism about Puig’s recovery, stating before a friendly match against Club America that he expected Puig to be at full capacity when training resumed this year. Puig is one of the Galaxy’s three Designated Players and had his contract extended in May 2024, ensuring he remains with the club through the 2027 season.
The impact of Puig’s surgery and subsequent recovery will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, as the midfielder’s presence on the field is integral to the Galaxy’s performance in the Major League Soccer landscape.
As the Galaxy prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on Puig’s rehabilitation process and how the team adapts to his absence during this critical recovery period.
