CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy have turned into a model of consistency in their rise to dominance in MLS, winning three of the last four MLS Cups, but they also have not been without their share of surprises.
In 2014, for example, Homegrown Player Gyasi Zardes, who turns just 24 in September, had 16 goals and two assists and teamed with Robbie Keane to form one of the league’s most lethal scoring duos. Robbie Rogers, a former midfielder asked to play a new position at left back, rejuvenated his career with a standout season.
There figure to be more unexpected developments in 2015, and three players – Rafael Garcia, Jose Villarreal and Kenney Walker -- may have positioned themselves to be this year’s pleasant surprises.
Garcia, a midfielder originally taken in the second round (38th overall) in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft, captained the club’s USL side, Galaxy II, last season. He played in just one game with the first team but had four goals and two assists for Los Dos.
Walker, also a midfielder and like Garcia a former second-round pick in the 2012 SuperDraft, played in eight games last season, including four starts, and could be ready for more playing time.
Then there is Villarreal, another Homegrown signee who returned last August from a loan to Mexico’s Cruz Azul and played in just five games in 2014. Villarreal is most often remembered for his stunning goal in a 2-2 tie against the Vancouver Whitecaps in July of 2012.
Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena said he’s taken notice of the trio as Friday’s regular-season opener against the Chicago Fire at StubHub Center rapidly approaches.
“Jose as of late has started to show what we thought he’s been capable of doing all along,” Arena said. “He’s a talented kid; he just has to be a little more dedicated and serious to his craft. I think we’re starting to see that, which is real encouraging.
“Kenney and Rafa are two players always with great attitudes. They’ve had good preseasons.”
Each of the players’ goals are similar – more playing time and capitalizing on opportunities.
“For me,” Walker said, “I think it’s going to be when I have my chances to play I can show I can help the team and actually help make it better.
“I just want to establish a presence on the field and in the league. Not just pushing these guys in practice but getting a foothold in the league, getting some exposure, building some confidence for myself and rooting for the guys that are out there.”
Said Villarreal, “I just want to get better. It’s not my first year in the league. I’m just trying to improve on little things on and off the field and looking forward to another good season.
“I just want to contribute whatever I can and continue to work hard.”
Garcia said he made it an offseason priority to be in top condition for training camp and believes the work will pay off in the long run.
“I’ve certainly put myself in position where if I’m called upon I can definitely step in and do the job,” he said. “I know the coaches here have confidence in me.
“It’s a long season and a lot of games. My mentality has always been to be ready when I’m called upon.”
