LA Galaxy's Riqui Puig sidelined for entire 2026 MLS campaign following second knee procedure

The Los Angeles Galaxy announced on Saturday that their Spanish midfielder Riqui Puig will sit out the full 2026 Major League Soccer season due to a fresh operation on his left knee.

Puig sat out the entire 2025 season following a tear to his left anterior cruciate ligament during the 2024 MLS Cup Western Conference final, which meant he also missed the Galaxy's triumphant win in the MLS Cup final just a week afterwards.

The 26 year old had resumed training with the California based team last fall, yet the club revealed on Friday that he encountered a complication.

"Riqui Puig successfully underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery on his left knee, more than a year after an identical operation in late 2024," the club stated.

"Puig anticipates a complete recovery and aims to return to the squad ahead of the 2027 MLS season opener."

On Instagram, Puig shared that during a recent medical evaluation, he learned "the graft was not holding up correctly, requiring another trip to surgery.

"Finding the right words is tough after all I've endured. This ranks among the most challenging periods in my personal and career life, no question.

"That said, the procedure went smoothly today, offering me renewed energy and calm to focus on the future," added the ex Barcelona standout.

"My sole focus now is to dive into rehab immediately, train harder than before, and reclaim the form you all recognise in me. With greater drive, fiercer determination, and solid resolve."

A graduate of Barcelona's renowned La Masia youth system, Puig joined the US league in 2022.

Across 82 appearances in various tournaments with the Galaxy, he netted 29 goals and provided 32 assists.

The team faltered in 2025 without his presence, securing just seven victories.