He’s staying in MLS, but he’s moving on to a new team! Mexican forward Hirving “Chucky” Lozano has a bright new future ahead of him. After months of uncertainty and being sidelined, the 31-year-old was officially announced as LA Galaxy’s star signing.
The arrival of the Pachuca academy product to LA Galaxy brings to a close a chapter that had been in the works for some time. According to the statement released by the club on its social media, the Galaxy had been seeking to sign the Mexican for three years, back when he was still shining in the Eredivisie, which is why the front office described this signing as “a chapter coming to a close.”
A Loan with a Taste of Revenge
The deal between San Diego FC and the LA Galaxy was finalized as a loan through December of this year, but with a lucrative buyout option once the loan period ends.
The California-based team has full confidence in Lozano’s experience; during his time with the new San Diego franchise, he posted highly impressive stats: 20 goals in 33 games played. However, his departure did not occur on the best of terms.
End of the “punishment” for disciplinary issues
With this move, “Chucky” is expected to finally return to professional play. The Mexican arrives after enduring a veritable nightmare, having spent more than nine months separated from the first team in San Diego due to a serious disciplinary issue.
The trigger for his suspension was a heated argument with his then-head coach. Lozano angrily reproached him for being substituted during a match against the Houston Dynamo, which caused a major rift in the locker room that ultimately led to his inactivity for nearly a year.
An Impressive European Resume
LA Galaxy isn’t just signing a media sensation, but a player with more than 129 career goals and an enviable track record.
After making his debut and breaking out with the Tuzos of Pachuca, Lozano conquered Europe in two stints with PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, where he won an Eredivisie title, recording 40 goals and 23 assists during his first spell, and 11 goals with five assists upon his return. He also made his mark in Italy’s demanding Serie A with Napoli, contributing 30 goals and 17 assists.
Now, the Hollywood spotlight is on “Chucky.” Will LA Galaxy be the perfect stage for the Mexican to regain his top form and put the controversies behind him? The talent is still there; now he just needs to prove himself on the field.
