The LA Galaxy have announced their 2025 team awards following the conclusion of the season [6]. Meanwhile, across the league, discussions are brewing regarding potential rule changes, echoing sentiments previously voiced by Zlatan Ibrahimovic [3].
Galaxy's Top Performers Honored
Diego Fagúndez has been named the Galaxy Player of the Year, recognizing his outstanding contributions throughout the 2025 season [6]. Joseph Paintsil secured the Golden Boot award after netting 10 goals in 22 appearances, leading the team in scoring [7, 8]. John Nelson was recognized as Defender of the Year, while Mauricio Cuevas earned Humanitarian of the Year honors [6]. In other news for the team, the LA Galaxy, Herbalife, LAUSD, and U.S. Soccer Foundation have unveiled a new mini pitch at Ricardo Lizarraga Elementary School [4].
Adding to the accolades, an LA Galaxy U-19 player, known as Vanney, was named the 2025 MLS NEXT Cup MVP [5]. Vanney's performance included three goals in the tournament, with one scored in the final on June 22 [5]. He is part of a group that achieved a three-peat in the MLS Next Cup [5]. Vanney was also called up to the U.S. U-19 Men’s National Team for a training camp in Spain [5].
MLS Rule Change Debate
Lionel Messi has expressed his desire for MLS to implement a significant rule change to further enhance the league's growth [3]. His suggestion aligns with a similar opinion previously voiced by Zlatan Ibrahimovic [3]. Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 has already significantly impacted the league, attracting increased viewership from around the world [3]. These potential changes come as familiar faces make waves in new roles across the league [2]. It's a season of shifts and fresh starts, exemplified by Tottenham Hotspur navigating their first campaign without Son Heung-min or Harry Kane since 2010-11 [2]. On a different note, Robbie Keane praised Jack Grealish, highlighting his free spirit [1].
Meanwhile, FC Dallas suffered a 3-0 defeat against Vancouver in Game 1 of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One [9]. Eleven players made their postseason debuts for FC Dallas, and goalkeeper Michael Collodi recorded seven saves [9].
TL;DR
- Diego Fagúndez was named LA Galaxy Player of the Year for 2025 [6].
- Joseph Paintsil won the Golden Boot award after scoring 10 goals for the LA Galaxy [7, 8].
- Lionel Messi is advocating for a crucial rule change in MLS to promote further growth [3].
- FC Dallas lost 3-0 to Vancouver in the first game of the MLS Cup Playoffs Round One [9].