“A great team not only inspires itself but lights a fire in others.“ These words from an ex-USMNT star hit differently when talking about the LA Galaxy, a team that has redefined resilience. They’re no strangers to the grand stage of the MLS Cup final, but this year feels different. Why? Their heated rivalry with LAFC has pushed them beyond their limits, turning the LA Galaxy into an even sharper unit.

But here’s a twist – Imagine losing a key player like Riqui Puig, just days before the biggest match of the season. Panic mode, right? Not this time. The ex-USMNT star believes the Galaxy have the kind of squad depth and spirit where one absence won’t shake them. Is it a bold claim or an undeniable truth? With four players scoring over 10 goals this season, the Galaxy have given pundits plenty of reasons to predict a storybook ending to their MLS journey this year.

LAFC made LA Galaxy stronger than ever- Ex-USMNT star has a bold claim

The stage is set, and the spotlight is on, LA Galaxy, with their 10th final, and NY Red Bulls who are making just their second appearance in MLS Cup history. Yet, amidst all the buzz, former USMNT star Taylor Twellman’s bold statement has stolen the pre-match chatter, “LAFC has made LA Galaxy better.” The same LAFC that’s been their bitter cross-town rival since 2018? That’s right. According to Twellman, this rivalry has forced the LA Galaxy to evolve into something even more formidable.

This depth and adaptability, according to Twellman, stems from LAFC’s relentless push as a rival. “LAFC came in, poked the bear, and made the Galaxy better,” he explained. The arrival of LAFC ignited a fierce battle for dominance in Los Angeles, forcing the Galaxy to reevaluate and rebuild, including the hiring of general manager Will Koons, formerly of LAFC – Do you agree with Twellman?

While the Red Bulls pride themselves on their solid defense, it’s the Galaxy’s relentless scoring and depth that pundits are betting on. Even Twellman didn’t hold back, calling LA Galaxy “arguably the most exciting team in the league even more thrilling than Inter Miami with Lionel Messi.” Beating Seattle Sounders in the Conference Cup finals and now with their main player injured do you think can they break up the defense of the NY Red Bulls in the final MLS Cup on Saturday?

17 goals and 12 assists in 33 games and to miss a player with these kinds of stats is tough to digest before the much-awaited MLS Cup final.

Injury blow – Who will fill Riqui Puig’s boots in the biggest game of the season?

Considering Puig, their midfield maestro, is sidelined after tearing his ACL in the Western Conference Final. Don’t you think it would be crazy to see how the LA Galaxy team will line up against a strong defense side on Saturday night? However, talking in the same show Twellman believes the Galaxy’s depth will carry them through. “Riqui Puig played 25 minutes with a torn ACL, delivered the game-winning assist, and now they’re so deep, I don’t think they’ll miss him. If they score first, Saturday could turn into a celebration in Carson.”

The sun is setting on Riqui Puig’s unforgettable season, but for LA Galaxy, the journey isn’t over. Puig, their talismanic playmaker, is set for surgery in the coming days, which could see him miss much of the 2025 MLS season.

His absence leaves a gaping hole in the Galaxy’s midfield, however since the arrival of Marco Reus, he has shown flashes of brilliance, but his numbers of just one goal and two assists in six starts suggest he’s still finding his groove. With Puig injured, the focus goes to Reus. Can the German stand up when it matters most and provide the creative spark that Galaxy requires?