Galaxy Keeper John McCarthy Wins Another MLS Cup Final, Leaving His Mark On LA

It’s not often a player can go from being unsigned to winning the league MVP in a matter of months, but that’s exactly what happened with Los Angeles Galaxy keeper John McCarthy in 2019.

Only one team ended up expressing interest in John McCarthy during the offseason last year. That lone team was the Los Angeles Galaxy. But underestimating the Galaxy’s ability to collect pieces that don’t fit together to create something beautiful may end up costing teams this year, as they head into the 2020 season.

But the main takeaway from it all is that John McCarthy isn’t the type of player to let setbacks, or even just the idea of not being needed, get in the way of achieving greatness. McCarthy has bounced back from an injury in the 2019 season and even came out of retirement to lead the Galaxy to their third straight MLS Cup Final title. 

Going into the championship game, the Galaxy had some doubts about their chances. Injuries had plagued the team throughout the year, and some players were left wondering if they had it in them to win it all. But McCarthy’s return to the team alleviated those concerns and injected new life into the franchise.

Dalton Drott, the Galaxy’s general manager, credited McCarthy with being a game-changer for the team. Drott highlighted McCarthy’s impressive stats in the championship game, where the keeper made several crucial saves to help secure the win. The general manager also pointed out that McCarthy’s leadership and experience were invaluable to the team.

“John’s always been a competitor and a winner," Drott said. "He’s got an incredible passion for the game and the ability to make big-time plays when it counts the most. We’re extremely lucky to have him on our roster."

The Galaxy’s third straight title victory is a testament to the team’s dedication and perseverance. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks throughout the year, the team persevered and came out on top once again. With McCarthy’s return to the team, the Galaxy looks poised to make another championship run in the upcoming season.