CARSON, Calif. – It was with a definite measure of gratitude that Curt Onalfo conducted his first official practice as head coach of the LA Galaxy on Tuesday.
Onalfo was named to the position in mid-December after Bruce Arena left to take over the U.S. men’s national team and understandably remained thankful for the opportunity with the five-time MLS Cup champions.
“Obviously being part of this organization for six years and now stepping into this role, it feels good,” he told reporters after training. “But it’s not about me.
“It’s about this team and getting them ready.”
The team will have a fresh look under Onalfo with the departures of several veteran players. Gone are the likes of Landon Donovan, Steven Gerrard, Robbie Keane, Jeff Larentowicz, Leonardo, Mike Magee, Alan Gordon, and A.J. DeLaGarza.
Several players admitted that the makeover came as a surprise, but stated that they were ready to meet the challenge.
“I didn’t think this much change would happen,” said midfielder Baggio Husidic, who came to the Galaxy on a free transfer from Swedish side Hammarby in November, 2013. “But obviously when the Galaxy doesn’t get to the championship (game) a couple of years in a row you’re bound to see changes.
“You have to be prepared for everything,” Husidic added. “In this business you have to welcome changes. If you don’t, you’re not going to survive.”
Jack McBean, who originally signed with the Galaxy as a 16-year-old homegrown player in January of 2011, also said change was inevitable. McBean returned to the club after a six-month loan with English side Coventry City and is expected to help ease the loss of Gordon, who recently signed with Colorado.
“It is a little bit surprising to see the faces that have been here for so long go,” McBean said. “But that’s sports and how this profession works. You look at other teams around the league and in other countries and that happens all the time.
“I think we were pretty lucky, kind of building a mini-dynasty when Bruce was here, but people get older and players get older and teams change.”
Midfielder Rafael Garcia was the Galaxy’s second-round pick in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft, and the 29-year-old said change often can be beneficial. But one thing never wavers, he pointed out.
“It’s a fresh team with a lot of new faces, but the goal remains the same,” he said. “That’s to be successful and win another (MLS) Cup.
“We can’t wait to get the season started and do the right things out here day after day.”