CARSON, Calif. – Emmanuel Boateng, a native of Accra, Ghana who went to high school and college in Santa Barbara, has been a fan of the LA Galaxy as long as he can remember.
He even saw the Galaxy win their last three MLS Cups at StubHub Center and was amazed at the supercharged atmosphere and passionate fan base during those contests. He often thought about what it would be like to wear the jersey of the five-time champions.
The 22-year-old is getting that chance now and starting to make the most of it. He was one of the club’s bright spots in Tuesday’s 0-0 draw with Liga MX side Club Tijuana in front of a crowd of 14,543 and continues to savor his good fortune.
“It’s all about timing,” the 5-foot-6, 160-pound midfielder said. “And I thought this was the right time for me.”
Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena was looking to add some badly-needed speed to the flank and found it in Boateng, who had been playing for Helsingborgs IF in Sweden. He had made 37 appearances for the club and scored four goals.
He played 72 minutes Tuesday before being replaced by Jose Villarreal and repeatedly displayed the kind of quickness that could give MLS opponents fits this season.
“Obviously speed is a factor,” head coach Bruce Arena said. “I think his work rate was good tonight. He’s doing a good job defensively, which has been a little bit of a shift for him. I think he’s done well.
“How his role is played out remains to be seen, but with he and (Sebastian) Lletget in that position there I think we have a good 90 minutes there and players that can come off the bench and help you in the last 20-30 minutes a game as well.
“I think that position has definitely been upgraded.”
Galaxy midfielder Baggio Husidic has been particularly impressed with the Ghanian speedster and considers himself fortunate to have not had to mark him during training camp so far.
“Luckily I’ve been on his team,” Husidic said with a laugh. “It’s been a little bit easier. He’s fast and he’s clever, too, which people underestimate with him. I’m really impressed with him.
“His speed is something we haven’t had in a really long time. He’s just a quick, explosive, one-on-one type of guy. It will be a great characteristic to add to our team. And he’s only 22, so he’s only going to get better and better.”
Boateng said his fitness is coming along – “I think I could have played an extra 10 or 15 minutes,” he said Tuesday – and his comfort level with his new teammates continues to improve as well.
He also said his adjustment period hasn’t been as trying as he thought it would be.
“There are a lot better players here,” he said. “If anything it’s me learning from those guys. They will make me look good as the season goes on.
“I just want to work hard and I’m thankful the coaches have faith in me here. Nothing’s been too surprising, but I’m definitely excited to be here.”