Today the Los Angeles Galaxy announced that they had come to terms with Columbian striker Juan Pablo Angel, formerly of the New York Red Bulls. The 35 year old was selected by the Galaxy in the first round (5th overall) of Stage 2 of the MLS Re-Entry draft. Over his four seasons with New York, Juan Pablo scored more goals than any other player during the span. He becomes the Galaxy's third Designated Player, along with David Beckham and Landon Donovan.
"We’re excited to be able to add Juan Pablo Angel to our club and I believe that he will play a major role in our success this season," Galaxy general manager and head coach Bruce Arena said. "He has been one of the best goalscorers in MLS over the last four years and I fully expect that he will be a productive and consistent player in a Galaxy uniform."
Angel is the most game ready of the options the Galaxy have brought in to replace Edson Buddle, last season's Golden Boot winner for the club. When he came into MLS, back in 2007, Bruce Arena was manager at New York, so this is a reunion of sorts for the two of them. In that first season he scored 19 goals in 24 games, and earn MLS Best XI honors.
"I’m very happy to join a team like the LA Galaxy, a tremendous organization with great players and a coach that knows me and that I know as well," Angel said. "I’m anxious to start this new challenge in my life and will do my best to bring back another championship to this city. The Galaxy fans are some of the greatest fans in the league, they provide great atmosphere and I can’t wait to play in front of them.
"I want to take this opportunity to show my appreciation for the Red Bull supporters, me and my family will always be grateful for the love and support they gave us. I also want to thank the organization for allowing me to be part of their club. I spent four great years in
and I will remember my time there fondly." New York
Juan Pablo Angel's career has seen him make stops in Argentina, Columbia, as well as a seven year stint at Aston Villa of the English Premier League. He scored 44 goals in 175 Premier League appearances, and more than 60 goals in all competitions. He made his national team debut for his native Columbia back in 1996 at the age of 21.