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Juninho leaps into the arms of Omar Gonzalez after Gonzalez scored in the MLS championship game against the Houston Dynamo last month. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / December 1, 2012) |
The Galaxy has filled one gaping hole in its thin midfield by signing Brazilian standout Juninho to a multiyear contract.
The agreement was reached earlier this winter but the team didn't officially announce the signing until Wednesday. Terms of the deal were not made public.
Juninho, who played three seasons with the Galaxy on loan from his Brazlilian club Sao Paulo, started 30 games last season, setting career highs for goals (seven) and assists (four). Assuring his return was a major item on Coach Bruce Arena's off-season to-do list.
Juninho also scored four goals in CONCACAF Champions League play, finishing with nine goals in 42 games in all competition.
The Galaxy has been weakened in the midfield since winning its second consecutive Major League Soccer title last month. The MLS retirement of David Beckham left a huge void, and while the club is optimistic captain Landon Donovan will return, Donovan reportedly is mulling his soccer future.
The Galaxy is scheduled to open training camp Monday. The season opener is March 3.
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