CARSON, Calif. – Carlo Cudicini has undergone a great deal of challenges over the last three years, but the veteran Italian goalkeeper is excited about the opportunity for a fresh start with the LA Galaxy.
Cudicini joined the Galaxy on Dec. 31 on a free transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, ending a 15-year career in the English Premier League that included stops at Chelsea and Spurs. That the 39-year-old was able to continue his career is nothing short of incredible after the Italian suffered a motorcycle accident in November of 2009 that many feared would end his career.
Cudicini ultimately battled back from the injury eventually making 37 appearances in all competitions for Tottenham prior to leaving for MLS. Now a member of the Galaxy, Cudicini is eager to prove himself with LA.
“After the motorbike accident that I had, I was struggling to get back fit and I thank all the Tottenham physios because they really helped me out,” said Cudicini in his first interview with the L.A.. based media on Thursday. “It was a big setback in my career and it was difficult to come back, but now I have the chance to play and that’s why I am here.”
Actual games will likely be the least of the challenges that Cudicini will face in his new career in MLS as he must deal with transcontinental travel, matches in searing temperatures, and of course turf fields. However, the Italian is taking the new obstacles in stride.
“It’s a new challenge and I’m pretty sure that when we’re on the road then we’ll be able to be together and it’s a good bond for the team and it’ll be a new experience. I’m looking forward to it because it’ll be new for me and I’m going to be happy to see how it will be.”
