The MLS returns to action 16 days after the LA Galaxy played their last match.
The new signing, Marco Reus, is available to make his debut tonight following another masterclass at the front office.
Normally, there isn’t much for a fanbase to worry about when their team is on sabbatical.
That hasn’t been the case for Galaxy supporters during their team’s break from play, as a particular German legend has captivated their attention.
On August 15th, exactly one week since the LA Galaxy were knocked out of the Leagues Cup by the Seattle Sounders, Marco Reus was announced as LA’s newest signing. It took multiple months to get the German to Los Angeles, but just acquiring his signature isn’t enough to get him game-ready.
As a non-US citizen, for Reus to represent the Galaxy in the United States he first needed to secure a visa. Internationally recognized athletes are eligible for a P1 Visa, which is for people with exceptional abilities in sports, entertainment, or the arts.
Like most of us when dealing with bureaucracy, the LA Galaxy have historically struggled to secure their players’ visas in a timely manner. Recent press conferences suggested there was a chance for Reus not to be eligible for the game against Atlanta United. When you’re investing so much in big-name players from abroad and promoting their debut in ad campaigns before their availability is confirmed, not obtaining the visa in time is a failure.
Fortunately, the Galaxy under Will Kuntz is a beast that is different from what it used to be.
Efficiency and accountability are the new norms, as evidenced by a report from Corner of the Galaxy.
Gordon Kljestan, Zack Murshedi, and Oliver Curry coordinated a massive effort that involved club owners AEG, immigration lawyers, and even a congressman to get Marco Reus his visa.
Together, the team was able to secure an appointment for last Thursday and managed to complete the process and obtain the all-important PI Visa on the same day.
Thanks to everyone pulling their weight and then some, Marco Reus is ready to debut for the LA Galaxy tonight against Atlanta.
Greg Vanney said that Reus has been training hard since landing in LA and should be ready to put on a show for what’s expected to be a capacity crowd at Dignity Health Sports Park.
PHOTO: Kelvin Kuo/USA TODAY Sports
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