Since Beckham signed with the Galaxy, there's been no shortage of trade rumors the entire season. Everyone from Zidane to MLS domestics like Carlos Ruiz have been linked up with the squad but nothing has yet to transpire. Until today folks.
The Galaxy have announced the acquisition of a new defensive enforcer for the June 15 transfer window in Abel Xavier. The 34 year old former Portuguese International comes on a free transfer from Middlesbrough, having previously played for Everton, Liverpool, Roma, and even Hannover 96 with Clint Mathis for a short period of time.
It's an extremely curious pickup for the Galaxy, although after last week's performance it's probably a good call. Although Xavier primarily plays on the right wing, he has learned to play central defense this past year with Middlesbrough and the Galaxy are starving for depth in that position. Even though he won't make it to the states until mid-June at the earliest, the possibility of Albright being called in for US National duty makes this move a little more understandable.
The one mark on Xavier over his career has been his penchant for controversy. He was suspended several months by FIFA after Euro 2000 for going after a referee and failed a drug test in 2005. As you can see by the picture, the man is an interesting figure to say the least, but perhaps his charismatic (or notorious?) nature will attract some new fans to MLS.
I can see Xavier being the Dennis Rodman of the league, a player fans love to hate. Because his play has dropped off over the years and at his age, I hope the Galaxy aren't paying him more than $150-200,000, but salary figures have yet to be released.
There just never seems to be any shortage of excitement with the Galaxy.
No comments:
Post a Comment