In an interview with MLSsoccer.com, LA Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena stated that it is "not likely" that goalkeeper Josh Saunders will return to the LA Galaxy after turning down several contract offers "in the last year."
With Saunders on the way out, it seems likely that the starting goalkeeper role will fall to Carlo Cudicini who was signed last week. Arena told MLSsoccer.com, that he had kept tabs on Cudicini for a number of years and spoke to his goalkeeper during the 2002 World Cup, former U.S. international Brad Friedel about the impact that he could have in MLS.
“I think we have a tremendously experienced goalkeeper,” Arena told MLSsoccer.com. “He's extremely fit for his age. I don't have any concerns about that. I think he's got a lot of class. I think he's an outstanding goalkeeper, and he's going to be great with our backline and helping with the communication and organization.”
Cudicini will likely be one of four goalkeepers in preseason camp for the Galaxy as Arena confirmed during his interview that the club has come to an agreement with back-up Brian Perk while third goalkeeper Brian Rowe willl return to the club. Meanwhile, the LA Galaxy continue to hold the rights to veteran goalkeeper William Hesmer.
