The LA Galaxy have signed Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, bringing the Mexican star back to North America after a lengthy career in Europe.
The Galaxy announced the long-gestating deal Tuesday for Hernández. The striker will participate in his first training session Thursday.
Hernández is a designated player for the Galaxy and the effective replacement for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who signed with AC Milan this winter after two outstanding seasons stateside. He will also be a compelling rival to Carlos Vela, who won the MLS MVP award last season during a record-setting performance for Los Angeles FC, the Galaxy's upstart crosstown foes.
FILE - In this Oct. 3, 2019, file photo, Sevilla's Javier Hernandez shoots, but fails to score, during a Europa League group A soccer match against APOEL Nicosia at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium in Seville, Spain. The Los Angeles Galaxy have signed Javier “Chicharito” Hernández to a Designated Player contract, the MLS soccer club announced Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020. (AP PhotoMiguel Morenatti, File)
The 31-year-old Hernández is the top goal-scorer in the history of the Mexican national team, which has a fervent following among Los Angeles' expansive Latino population. His arrival in Major League Soccer is another boon for the league in its burgeoning competition with Liga MX, Mexico's top professional division.
Hernández has been with Sevilla since last September, appearing in only nine matches while struggling to get consistent playing time in La Liga. He joined the Spanish club after two seasons with West Ham in the Premiership.
Hernández also has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen since leaving Chivas in his native Guadalajara in 2010.
Hernández's nickname means “little pea” in English. He is named in honor of his father, Javier “Chicharo” Hernández, who had an 18-year pro career in Mexico.
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