Riqui Puig to Miss MLS Cup Due to ACL Tear

LA Galaxy's star midfielder Riqui Puig will miss the upcoming MLS Cup final against the New York Red Bulls due to a torn ACL suffered in the Western Conference Final against the Seattle Sounders. Despite the injury, Puig played on for over 30 minutes and assisted the match-winning goal. His absence is a significant blow to the Galaxy, as he has been a pivotal player since joining from Barcelona, contributing 17 goals and 20 assists this season. Puig's injury requires surgery, and recovery could take between six to 12 months, potentially affecting the start of the 2025 season. The Galaxy, seeking their sixth MLS Cup title, will have to adjust their strategy without their key playmaker for the final game on December 7. The team has shown resilience without Puig in the past, but his absence is deeply felt as they aim to capture the championship for the first time since 2014.