San Diego FC: The New Powerhouse of MLS Expansion 
Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has made a significant move in the MLS transfer market by acquiring midfielder Mark Delgado from their city rivals, LA Galaxy. The trade, announced on Wednesday, sees LAFC bolster their midfield ahead of the upcoming 2025 season, while the Galaxy receive $400,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) spread over the next two seasons.
Key Takeaways
- LAFC acquires Mark Delgado from LA Galaxy.
- The Galaxy receives $400,000 in General Allocation Money.
- Delgado has a wealth of experience in MLS, including a treble-winning season with Toronto FC.
- The trade enhances LAFC’s midfield depth as they aim for multiple trophies in 2025.
Mark Delgado, a 29-year-old Southern California native, has had a distinguished career in Major League Soccer, with 22 goals and 38 assists in 309 regular-season appearances. He previously played for Chivas USA and Toronto FC, where he was part of the historic treble-winning team in 2017. Most recently, he contributed to the Galaxy’s success, helping them secure their sixth MLS Cup title in 2024.
LAFC’s co-president and general manager, John Thorrington, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "Mark is a player we know well from his distinguished career in MLS. We believe Mark’s energy and technical abilities complement our midfield group incredibly well, and it is all the more exciting to add a player who grew up playing in Southern California to help us in our goal of contending for multiple trophies in 2025."
Delgado’s Impact on LAFC
Delgado’s addition is expected to enhance LAFC’s midfield, which already includes talents like Odin Thiago Holm and Timothy Tillman. His experience and skill set will be crucial as the team prepares for a competitive season ahead.
- Previous Teams: Chivas USA, Toronto FC, LA Galaxy
- Career Stats: 22 goals, 38 assists in 309 appearances
- National Team: Capped six times by the US men’s national team
LA Galaxy’s general manager, Will Kuntz, acknowledged Delgado’s contributions during his time with the club, stating, "We’d like to thank Mark for everything he has done on and off the field for our club. Mark has been a big part of our group over the last three seasons and played a huge role in helping the Galaxy to its sixth MLS Cup title. We wish Mark and Nicky all the best."
Looking Ahead
As both teams prepare for the 2025 MLS season, LAFC will kick off their campaign on February 22 against Minnesota United FC, while the Galaxy will defend their MLS Cup title starting February 23 against expansion side San Diego FC. Both clubs are also set to compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup, with LAFC debuting on February 18 at the Colorado Rapids.
This trade marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing rivalry between LAFC and LA Galaxy, known as El Tráfico, as Delgado transitions from one side to the other, adding a new layer of excitement to the matchup.
