Yet another talented European campaigner is making his way to Major League Soccer after the Los Angeles Galaxy signed Portuguese international defender Abel Xavier on a free transfer English Premier League side Middlesbrough.
The 34-year-old Xavier made 20 total appearances for Middlesbrough in all competitions this season. His contract expires at the end of the season, and according to Galaxy head coach Frank Yallop, he contacted the Galaxy about the possibility of coming to the USA.
"It's a good signing for us. (Xavier) wanting to come to MLS, it's great to have that," said Yallop. "He had other options to consider. Talking to him over the last little bit, he wants to do this."
In addition to Middlesbrough, Xavier had played for clubs such as AS Roma (Serie A), Hannover 96 (Bundesliga), PSV Eindhoven (Dutch Eredivisie), Benfica (Portuguese Liga), Real Oviedo (Spain's La Liga) and had other Premiership stops at Everton and Liverpool over the course of his 17-year career.
"Management has made a promise that they are going to go out and try and strengthen this team the best way they see fit," said Galaxy veteran Pete Vagenas. "He's obviously a player that's got a page long of wonderful credentials."
Xavier has also earned 20 caps with the Portuguese national team, including a place on the 2002 World Cup squad. It's that kind of experience and leadership that will be most welcomed by the Galaxy squad.
"He's just a man, and he'll be a leader and he'll help us. We need a little bit of that," said Landon Donovan, "not only in the back, but all over the field. We could have used that Saturday (against New England) and I think he'll help us in that way."
Yallop wouldn't say where he would slot Xavier into the lineup, or if he'd even start. But the Galaxy didn't trade away Shavar Thomas to make room for an international player they didn't intend to play. One thing is for certain, Xavier will raise the bar for everyone in the Galaxy camp.
"It adds competition for places which I don't really think we've had with Troy Roberts being injured," said Yallop. "I thought he was going to have a good year. It's just healthy when you have more players to choose from."
Xavier won't be eligible to play for the Galaxy until the secondary transfer window opens up on June 15. Until then, Xavier will come in and train with the team.
"We can't get him playing until the window is open," said Yallop. "We'll get him in, get his visa all sorted out, get him traveling with the team and away we go."
The Galaxy are already marking their calendars. While Xavier is a great addition for MLS, he will more directly boost a defensive unit that was knocked a bit off balance by New England over the weekend.
"It'll be good (when he arrives). You always want your teammates here," said Vagenas. "It's something where he can't arrive soon enough."
Greg Daurio is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
