The LA Galaxy have made a significant addition to their roster by acquiring defender Lucas Calegari from Turkish Süper Lig club Eyüpspor, as announced by the team on Thursday. This move marks a continuation of the Galaxy's efforts to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
Calegari, a 24-year-old former Brazilian youth international, has signed a contract that will keep him with the Galaxy until June 2029. His previous experience with the team came during a loan spell in 2023, where he made a notable impact by contributing two assists across 27 matches. Despite facing a setback due to a torn ACL that sidelined him for part of the season, Calegari's performance earned him the title of Galaxy Defender of the Year.
Before joining the Galaxy, Calegari developed his skills at Fluminense, where he played a total of 131 matches, scoring two goals and providing seven assists. His career also includes stints in the Portuguese Primeira Liga with FC Famalicão and a successful tenure at Eyüpspor, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across different leagues.
Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz expressed enthusiasm about Calegari's return, stating, "Lucas made a great impact during his first stint with the LA Galaxy, and we are excited to welcome him back to the club. He is a talented and versatile defender who knows our organization, our expectations, and our supporters. At just 24 years old, Lucas already brings valuable experience from MLS, Brazil, Portugal, and Turkey, and we believe he will be an important addition to our group as we continue building toward sustained success."
Calegari's signing is part of a broader strategy by the Galaxy to enhance their roster ahead of the new season. He joins a list of recent acquisitions that includes Japanese international striker Kyōgo Furuhashi, Mexican international Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, and former FC Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto. These signings reflect the Galaxy's commitment to returning to form and competing for a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference.
Currently, the LA Galaxy sit in 13th place in the Western Conference and are eager to make a push for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. The team has not qualified for the playoffs since their championship win in 2024, and the addition of players like Calegari is seen as essential for reviving their fortunes in the league.
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