Mark Delgado’s Unexpected Journey
Mark Delgado, the 29-year-old midfielder, has had a storied career in Major League Soccer (MLS) that has spanned over a decade. Born and raised in Southern California, he has played six seasons with the LA Galaxy, having also spent seven years with Toronto FC. Despite his familiarity with the region, the recent trade to LAFC brought a surprising twist. "I had to pull out the GPS and make sure I was going the right way," Delgado joked after his first training session with LAFC, held at a back corner of the Cal State L.A. campus. The trade, which saw the Galaxy struggling to stay under the league salary cap, sent Delgado up the freeway in exchange for $400,000 in general allocation money.
A New Chapter in a Storybook Career
For Delgado, the trade marks the beginning of a new chapter in his already impressive career. He has won two MLS Cups, a Supporters’ Shield, and three Canadian Championships, all before the age of 30. Last season, Delgado set a personal best with 32 appearances and matched his career high with 29 starts. His durability and versatility make him a valuable asset to LAFC, filling the void left by veterans Ilie Sánchez, Eduard Atuesta, Lewis O’Brien, and Mateusz Bogusz. Bogusz, who was second on the team in both goals and assists in 2024, will be a tough act to follow, but Delgado is more than capable of stepping into the role. LAFC’s General Manager, John Thorrington, praised Delgado, saying he is "one of the most underrated players in our league" and "the type of guy that every successful team needs."
A Deep and Transformative Roster
The trade comes at a crucial time for LAFC, which is reshaping its roster after a transformative offseason. Despite reaching the MLS Cup final in the last two seasons and winning the regular-season Western Conference title in 2024, the team was eliminated by Seattle in extra time during the second round of the playoffs. Thorrington is determined to build a deeper squad, aiming to have "two deep in every position" once the roster is complete. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming additions, noting that they will bring "real key additions that know the league, that know what it takes to win in this league." Delgado’s passing ability, which ranked eighth in the league last season with a completion rate of over 91%, is expected to significantly enhance LAFC’s possession-based style under coach Greg Vanney.
Adjusting to a New Coach and Rivalry
Delgado’s transition to LAFC also means he will be playing under a coach other than Vanney for the first time in 11 seasons, adding another layer of adjustment. The midfielder, known for his composure and skill, will have to adapt to a different tactical approach and a new team dynamic. However, his experience with successful teams should help him acclimate quickly. Another significant change is his role in El Tráfico, the intense rivalry between LAFC and the Galaxy. Delgado, along with Raheem Edwards and John McCarthy, is one of only three players to have played for both teams in this rivalry. He acknowledges the significance but emphasizes the lack of ill feelings. "It’s definitely a game you always want to be a part of. But for me there was never any bad blood. So I’m on the other side now. I’m excited for it but I will say the switch was a little nerve-wracking," he said.
A Triple Crown of Southern California Soccer
For someone who has lived most of his life in Southern California and kicked his first soccer ball at the age of four in Glendora, playing for all three of the region’s MLS teams—Chivas USA, LA Galaxy, and now LAFC—is a remarkable achievement. Delgado began his professional career with Chivas USA at the tender age of 16, making him one of the youngest players to enter the league. His journey from Chivas to the Galaxy and now to LAFC is unique and meaningful. "That’s honestly a really cool stat. It makes me really proud," Delgado remarked. This triple crown of Southern California soccer not only highlights his longevity and adaptability but also his deep connection to the local community.
Setting His Sights on More History
Delgado’s potential to make even more history with LAFC is a source of motivation. He has already won league championships with Toronto FC and the LA Galaxy, and if he can help LAFC lift the MLS Cup, he would become only the fifth player to achieve this feat with three different teams. "You just lit a little fire in my stomach," he said when asked about the possibility. "Now I’m looking forward to it. Let’s do it." His new contract, believed to be a multiyear deal that will pay him more than the $876,250 he earned with the Galaxy last season, underscores LAFC’s commitment to his talent and leadership. As he settles into his new role, Delgado’s focus is clear: to bring his experience and skill to a team that is poised to make a deep run in the upcoming season.
