CARSON, Calif. – Jose Villarreal sounded his arrival in MLS with an late bomb against Vancouver Whitecaps FC for his first career goal back in July, but the 19-year-old forward believes that the events of 2012 are just the beginning of a promising career.
In his rookie season for LA, “the kid from Inglewood” as he’s called by some Galaxy fans has made 14 appearances in all competitive competitions, scoring two goals. The 19-year-old had an even larger impact in MLS Reserve League play, making nine appearances while scoring three goals. Although the youngster made only 11 appearances in MLS regular season and postseason play, Villarreal has become a key member of LA's rotation since being added to the club's roster on July 14 as he has made the game day roster in 23 of the Galaxy's last 24 games in all competitions.
Villarreal admits that while his season has been an incredible ride, he’s hoping for even more next year.
“It’s been an amazing season," Villarreal said after LA's final practice before the Thanksgiving holiday break on Wednesday. "I was just trying to come in as a rookie in the middle of the season and hoping to get some minutes. I feel happy but at the same time, not satisfied because I haven’t been performing the way that I want to, but I’ve been looking to get better and better for next year."
