Los Angeles has long been a magnet for some of the biggest names in global soccer, with international stars choosing the City of Angels. LA Galaxy and LAFC have built reputations for attracting some of the sport’s most celebrated figures.
Iconic Players in LA
David Beckham’s arrival in 2007 with the Galaxy helped transform MLS into a more globally recognized league. The English midfielder joined LA Galaxy in 2007, transforming MLS with his international star power and helping the team win two MLS Cups.
The Swedish striker brought his trademark swagger and flair to LA Galaxy from 2018 to 2020, scoring 53 goals in 58 matches. The Mexican forward became LAFC’s first marquee signing in 2018 and won the MLS MVP in 2019 with a record 34 goals.
Mexico’s all-time leading goal scorer signed with the LA Galaxy in 2020, adding international prestige and fan appeal to the club. The Welsh winger joined LAFC in 2022, famously scoring a dramatic late equalizer in the MLS Cup final that LAFC went on to win.
The Mexican striker joined LA Galaxy in 2000, bringing World Cup pedigree and scoring flair to the MLS during his brief but memorable stint. The Irish forward starred for LA Galaxy from 2011 to 2016, scoring 104 goals and winning three MLS Cups while serving as captain.
The decorated English defender played for LA Galaxy from 2016 to 2018, bringing veteran leadership and Premier League pedigree. The longtime Liverpool and England captain joined LA Galaxy from 2015 to 2016, adding midfield experience and leadership.
The French World Cup winner joined LAFC in 2025, bringing top-flight experience from Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. The veteran Italian defender and Euro 2020 champion signed with LAFC in 2022, providing experience and leadership before retiring in 2023.
The former FC Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder played for LA Galaxy from 2015 to 2019 with the Mexican international scoring 29 goals. The German playmaker, known for his long Borussia Dortmund career, signed with the LA Galaxy in 2015, bringing creativity and experience.
The South Korean superstar forward joined LAFC in 2025 after a storied career with Tottenham Hotspur, instantly becoming one of the league’s most high-profile players. Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium, renamed Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament, is one of the venues that will host the international soccer tournament.
There are five group stage matches at the stadium and three knockout phase games. The 48-team group stage lasts until June 27, then the top two teams in each group along with the eight best third-place finishers will advance to the Round of 32 beginning on June 28.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
