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LA Galaxy's Riqui Puig Out for 2026 After Second ACL Surgery

A setback found during a Barcelona checkup prompted the operation.

Overview

  • The Galaxy confirmed a successful ACL reconstruction on Puig’s left knee in Barcelona, with multiple reports identifying Dr. Ramón Cugat as the surgeon.
  • The club expects a full recovery and is targeting a return for the start of the 2027 season, with detailed timelines to be determined after the procedure.
  • Puig initially tore the ligament in the 2024 Western Conference final, missed the entire 2025 campaign, and had returned to training in the fall before the latest setback.
  • If doctors conclude he cannot play in 2026, the team could move him to the season-ending injury list to free a Designated Player roster spot.
  • His absence removes the Galaxy’s main creator from 2026 plans, challenging an offseason that added Jakob Glesnes and Justin Haak but left a clear need for playmaking in midfield.