Marco Reus Expected to Suit Up for LA Galaxy in MLS Cup Final
The stakes couldn’t be higher for the LA Galaxy as they prepare to host the New York Red Bulls in Saturday’s MLS Cup final at Dignity Health Sports Park. But fans of the Galaxy can breathe a sigh of relief—head coach Greg Vanney has confirmed that star midfielder Marco Reus is expected to be available for the championship showdown.
“Marco trained full [team training] today, barring him walking inside and saying anything that I’m not expecting, he should be ready to go tomorrow,” Vanney told reporters on Friday. This update comes as a major boost for the Galaxy, who are already dealing with the absence of MLS Best XI winner Riqui Puig due to a devastating ACL tear.
Reus’s availability had been in question earlier this week. On Thursday, the German midfielder expressed uncertainty about his fitness, saying, “I’m not sure,” when asked about his chances of playing. Reus has been nursing a groin issue that limited him during last week’s 1-0 Western Conference final victory over the Seattle Sounders FC. However, Vanney’s latest comments suggest that the Galaxy will have one of their key playmakers on the field when it matters most.
Galaxy Look to Extend Their MLS Cup Legacy
As the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, the Galaxy enter the final as favorites—not just because of their strong season but also because they’ll have the home-field advantage. A win on Saturday would give the Galaxy their sixth MLS Cup title, further cementing their status as the league’s most successful franchise.
But the Red Bulls aren’t here to play the role of underdog, even if the odds seem stacked against them. As the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Red Bulls have already made history by becoming the lowest seed to ever reach the MLS Cup final. Despite this, head coach Sandro Schwarz is adamant that his team doesn’t see itself as an underdog.
“I have never said this, that we are playing like an underdog or to go into the first [playoff] round against Columbus and to play like an underdog,” Schwarz said during his Friday press conference. “I don’t know how you can play as [an] underdog when it’s kickoff because then you have these situations, then you have to play, you have to find your solution.”
Playoff Drama: A Unique Challenge
For Schwarz, the MLS playoff format is a refreshing change from the European competitions he’s more familiar with. “Playoffs is great! It’s a great competition at the end of the season,” he said with a smile. “I would also say when you have 34 games like in Europe, or also here these 34 [regular season] games consistently when you are here when you get the most points, then it also makes a good picture, but playoffs I love.”
The Red Bulls’ journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable. After sneaking into the playoffs as the lowest seed, they’ve defied expectations at every turn. Now, they’re just one win away from claiming their first-ever MLS Cup title. The Galaxy, on the other hand, are making their first appearance in the final since 2014, a drought by their lofty standards. The Red Bulls’ only other trip to the championship game came in 2008, making this a rare opportunity for both teams to make history.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Marco Reus’s Impact: Will Reus be at 100%? His presence could be the difference-maker for the Galaxy, especially with Puig sidelined.
- Red Bulls’ Cinderella Run: Can the No. 7 seed complete their improbable journey with a win on the biggest stage?
- Home-Field Advantage: The Galaxy have the crowd on their side, but will it be enough to fend off a scrappy Red Bulls squad?
Saturday’s matchup promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the MLS season. With the Galaxy aiming to add another trophy to their already impressive collection and the Red Bulls chasing their first-ever title, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether you’re rooting for the perennial powerhouse or the plucky underdog, one thing is certain: this is a game you won’t want to miss.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
