CARSON, CA - The Los Angeles Galaxy have re-acquired Brazilian midfielder Marcelo Saragosa, the club announced today. Saragosa, 23, a youth international, will fill the spot on the Galaxy's roster vacated by defender Paul Broome when he was traded to Real Salt Lake on June 29, pending the arrival of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
"We are thrilled to welcome Marcelo back to the Galaxy," said Galaxy President and General Manager Doug Hamilton. "His presence signifies the respect that our club enjoys internationally and, specifically, confirms our relationship with São Paulo Futebol Clube (Brazil), one of the world's leading clubs."
Saragosa originally joined the Los Angeles Galaxy on March 31, 2004. His acquisition was just one part of an International Protocols Agreement signed by the club and South American powerhouse São Paulo (Brazil), one of the finest cultivators of young talent in the world. While in the youth system at São Paulo, "Gallo" played alongside current Galaxy midfielder Paulo Nagamura.
"Marcelo is a proven player in this League," said Galaxy Head Coach Steve Sampson. "His knowledge of our club and league, when combined with his ability, will give our midfield an added dimension."
With the Galaxy in 2004, his first MLS season, Saragosa appeared in 26 regular season matches - 24 of them as a starter - and logged a total of 2,123 minutes. He did not score a goal and registered his lone assist on the campaign in 4-1 defeat of the then-Dallas Burn on May 29 at The Home Depot Center. In the postseason, he started each of the Galaxy's three matches and was on the field for a grand total of 242 minutes. He returned to Brazil after the completion of the season, however the Galaxy retained their right of first refusal.
The Los Angeles Galaxy will return to The Home Depot Center on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills on Sunday, September 25 when they host the Kansas City Wizards. The 5pm game will feature a celebration of the Galaxy's annual AYSO night. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Galaxy Ticket Office toll-free at 1-877-3GALAXY.</p>
TRANSACTION: Los Angeles Galaxy (Major League Soccer) acquire midfielder Marcelo Saragosa.
