CARSON, Calif. (Monday, Nov. 3, 2014) – LA Galaxy II announced today that the club has signed LA Galaxy Academy goalkeeper Eric Lopez. Lopez, 15, becomes the youngest player ever to sign a contract in USL PRO and the second-ever LA Galaxy Academy player to sign a professional contract with Los Dos.
“Eric is a young goalkeeper with a lot of potential to grow into a top player,” said LA Galaxy II Head Coach Curt Onalfo. “We look forward to developing him as both a player and a person.”
Lopez has featured at every level of the LA Galaxy Academy, playing with the LA Galaxy U-13’s to the U-18’s. He has also been named various U.S. Soccer Academy rosters, most recently earning his first call up to a U-17 U.S. Men’s National Team camp in January. Additionally, Lopez has spent time training with the LA Galaxy first team in previous seasons.
“Eric is another example of the fully-realized player developmental system that the Galaxy have implemented,” said LA Galaxy Technical Director Jovan Kirovski. “We are excited to complete this deal and keep talented prospects like Eric within the Galaxy organization as their careers progress.”
He joins midfielder Jaime Villarreal as the only two LA Galaxy Academy players to sign professional contracts with LA Galaxy II.
Last month, the LA Galaxy announced a $15 million investment from the Galaxy and AEG into StubHub Center. The investment will provide upgraded and designated locker room space and facilities for LA Galaxy II and the LA Galaxy Academy, allowing youth players to play and develop amidst the most professional environment possible from the moment they join the LA Galaxy Academy.
