As reported first on the LA Galaxy Insider on Wednesday afternoon, the LA Galaxy formally announced the signature of Cal-State Bakersfield standout Gyasi Zardes on Thursday morning.
Considered the number one prospect in college soccer by many, Zardes scored 38 goals and 17 assists in 56 games during his three year stint with the Roadrunners. The former Galaxy Under-18 and Under-20 player also spent time with the PDL's Ventura County Fusion during both the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
“I am extremely excited about the opportunity to join the LA Galaxy. The chance to play in front of family and friends and alongside the likes of Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan truly is a dream come true,” Zardes said in a statement. “I would like to sincerely thank the Galaxy, MLS, Cal-State University Bakersfield and Wasserman [his agency] for their support and belief in me. I would also like to thank God without whom I would certainly not be where I am today. I am looking forward to working hard and helping the Galaxy defend their MLS Cup title next season”.
The 21-year-old forward from Hawthorne becomes the fifth Homegrown signing in Galaxy history and the fourth currently on the team as he joins Jack McBean, Oscar Sorto and Jose Villarreal.
“Gyasi has been one of the most exciting prospects in our Academy for a number of years and was one of the best players in college soccer over the past few years so we are excited to finally be able to sign him as a Homegrown Player,” Galaxy Vice President Chris Klein said in a statement. “He has grown and improved immeasurably as a result of his experiences with our Academy and at Bakersfield and we look forward to having him make his Galaxy debut in 2013.”
A video clip of some of Zardes' highlights that surfaced on Wednesday is below...
--
Share your thoughts on the signing below.
