LA Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena has a well-earned reputation for revitalizing veteran talent, one which was bolstered as Mike Magee transformed from role player to all-star during his four-plus seasons in Casron, Calif. Now, two-and-a-half years after Magee departed Los Angeles, and two years after he claimed an unlikely league Most Valuable Player award, the 31-year-old is returning to StubHub Center.
The Galaxy made Magee’s signing official on Thursday, with the former New York Red Bulls and Chicago Fire player rejoining the team with which he won MLS Cups in 2011 and 2012. Out of contract with Chicago, Magee because the latest veteran to find a new home as part of Major League Soccer’s first free agent class.
“Mike has shown that he is one of the most versatile and effective players in our league,” Arena said in a statement released Thursday by the club. “He is familiar with our club and will be a key part of our team on and off the field. We look forward to Mike joining to our roster.”
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Magee joins former Chicago teammate Jeff Larentowicz as free agents that have moved to the Galaxy this offseason. The five-time MLS champions have also added former Chivas USA goalkeeper Dan Kennedy, who returns to Los Angeles after one season with FC Dallas. In the process, the team has lost linchpins in defense and midfield, with Omar Gonzalez (Pachuca) and Juninho (Tijuana) departing for Mexico.
A 13-year MLS veteran, Magee has won for major team honors in his career, contributing to two Supporters’ Shield-winning teams in Los Angeles in addition to winning two league titles. In 286 career appearances, the forward/midfielder has scored 64 goals, with his 22 tallies between LA and Chicago in 2013 propelling him to the league’s Most Valuable Player award.
Magee was traded in the middle of that season for Robbie Rogers, who has since established himself at left back in Los Angeles. Magee will be looking for similar security in Arena’s starting XI, potentially in support of captain Robbie Keane at forward.
