Carson, CA – This morning, the LA Galaxy announced the signing of veteran English left back Ashley Cole. Cole is widely considered to be one of the best defenders of his generation, and the best left back in the EPL era. The 35-year-old has played for Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Chelsea, and Roma during his career, appearing in 410 matches and scoring twenty five goals.
“Ashley is one of the world’s most successful defenders and has played at the highest level of competition throughout his career,…He can provide our defense with valuable experience. We look forward to his contribution to our club this season.” – Bruce Arena, LA Galaxy Head Coach and General Manager, on signing Ashley Cole
Cole played a crucial role as part of Arsenal’s “Invincibles” – during the 2003-04 EPL Season, Arsenal finished its campaign without a single loss. Cole has also amassed an impressive trophy chest: 4 EPL titles, 7 FA Cups, 2 Community Shields, One League Cup, One Champions League, and one Europa League.
“Ashley Cole has a great history. We know that doesn’t necessarily translate on the field when you come to MLS but my interactions over the last couple of months show me that he’s a player that has a strong desire to play here in Los Angeles,…He’s very fit and has a burning desire to get back on the field and prove to people that he can still play. I have a hard time believing that he won’t be one of the better left backs in our league. I think that the opportunity that he’s going to have in LA is going to be a good one for him, and he’s going to be able to contribute greatly to our team.” – Bruce Arena, on Ashley Cole joining MLS
Cole played internationally for thirteen years and tallied 107 caps for England. In his prime, Cole was best-described as an attacking fullback. He is just the latest in a litany of Galaxy signings, including goalkeepers Dan Kennedy and Clement Diop, defenders Jelle Van Damme and Daniel Steres, midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, and forwards Mike Magee and Emmanuel Boateng.
Cole will occupy an International roster spot pending the receipt of a P-1 Visa and ITC. Cole was not signed the LA Galaxy as a Designated Player. Per MLS and club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Cole will join the LA Galaxy at a busy time of the preseason. The LA Galaxy is gearing up to play in the CONCACAF Champions League on February 26th, where it will host Santos Laguna at the StubHub Center.
The LA Galaxy kick off the MLS season against DC United at the Stubhub Center on Sunday, March 6th.