LA Galaxy v Atlanta United: Reus eyes trophy after MLS switch

Marco Reus is available to make his debut for LA Galaxy as they look to consolidate their place at the top of the Western Conference when they take on Atlanta United.

The 35-year-old’s signing until the end of the 2026 MLS season was confirmed last week after he brought the curtain down on a 12-year spell at Borussia Dortmund

Despite leaving Europe, Reus still holds ambitions of lifting silverware in the United States, with the Galaxy in a promising position as MLS returns following a break for the Leagues Cup.

The Galaxy are top of the Western Conference on 49 points, four behind East leaders Inter Miami in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.

In his introductory press conference, Reus said: “I’m here to help the team and to win championships. So that’s the reason you play football. And of course that’s the reason why I’m here.

“The goal is for the club to win the championship and be successful. It’s been 10 years since we won the championship, the time is now and I’m ready, I think the team is ready, so we’re ready.”

Marco is ready.

Marco Reus has received his P1 Visa and is available for selection this Saturday against Atlanta United FC. pic.twitter.com/g1SzQllwEi

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) August 22, 2024

Reus joins an attack that has already scored 50 goals this season, the third most of any MLS side, and the Galaxy will hope his signing further galvanises their trophy bid as they aim to move on from their disappointing defeat to the Seattle Sounders in the Leagues Cup.

Saturday’s opponents, Atlanta United, also suffered an early exit from that competition, and they will hope a good showing can set the tone for a strong run-in.

Atlanta have not played in nearly three weeks, but veteran goalkeeper Brad Guzan welcomed the break in terms of providing both a physical and mental reset, as the Five Stripes approach the last nine matches of the regular season.

The ex-Aston Villa man said: “For us, it’s been a time to hit the reset button and really look at things.

“We have been able to use it to our advantage. We understand the necessity to get points. We understand the urgency.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

LA Galaxy – Gabriel Pec

Reus may be the new attraction, but Gabriel Pec has contributed to a goal in a Galaxy-record 11 straight regular-season home matches.

He has been involved in 17 goals (9 goals, 8 assists) in 13 home matches this season as only Lionel Messi (19) has more goal involvements in regular-season home matches in MLS in 2024.

Atlanta United – Saba Lobjanidze

Saba Lobjanidze (one goal, three assists) has been involved in each of Atlanta’s last four regular-season goals.

His last two assists, both against the Columbus Crew on July 20, came off corners after he had not recorded an assist off a corner in his first 29 career MLS matches.

MATCH PREDICTION: LA GALAXY WIN

The Galaxy have won nine of their last 12 regular season matches (L3) dating back to late May. This is the first time LA have won nine times in a span of 12 league games since July-September 2014, the Galaxy’s last MLS Cup-winning season.

Atlanta, meanwhile, have lost three straight regular-season road matches for the first time since April 2022. It has been five years since the Five Stripes had a longer league losing streak on the road, losing six in a row on their travels in May-July 2019.

The Galaxy earned their first points against Atlanta the last time the sides met, winning 2-0 at home in July 2022. Atlanta had won the first three meetings between the sides by a combined score of 9-0.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

LA Galaxy – 50.0%

Draw – 25.3%

Atlanta United – 24.8%