COG STUDIOS, Calif. — The LA Galaxy’s 2026 season is over—and the questions are only getting bigger. After a disastrous 2-1 Decision Day loss to Real Salt Lake, should Greg Vanney keep his job? And what changes must the Galaxy make before 2027?
On this episode of Corner of the Galaxy, host Josh Guesman and LA Times soccer reporter Kevin Baxter break down LA’s MLS playoff elimination, the coaching debate, and an offseason that could reshape the six-time MLS Cup champions.
DECISION DAY DISASTER: GALAXY 1, REAL SALT LAKE 2
LA entered its final match controlling its playoff destiny. Instead, the Galaxy conceded twice in the opening 13 minutes and produced almost nothing offensively. Despite 59% possession, they managed at most one shot on target; their lone goal came from an RSL own goal. Josh and Kevin examine the defensive breakdowns involving Emiro Garcés and Pablo Ruiz, the struggles of Joseph Paintsil, and why a late chance involving João Klauss and Marco Reus went begging. A draw would have been enough for a Wild Card berth.
IS GREG VANNEY ON THE HOT SEAT?
Vanney delivered the 2024 MLS Cup, but the Galaxy have now missed the playoffs in three of the last four seasons. The hosts debate whether the club’s slow starts, inconsistent performances, and expensive roster demand a coaching change. Kevin shares unconfirmed reporting suggesting AEG may retain Vanney for the upcoming sprint season, while Josh weighs the risks of starting over.
WILL KUNTZ, AEG AND THE FRONT OFFICE
Could the fallout reach general manager Will Kuntz? The discussion explores his contract situation, questions about the working relationship between Kuntz and Vanney, and who ultimately makes major soccer decisions at the Galaxy. No front-office outcome is confirmed.
WHO STAYS, WHO GOES?
The offseason roster debate centers on whether to retain Klauss, exercise the option on Chucky Lozano, and move on from Paintsil. The hosts also discuss Marco Reus, Sergi Roberto, defensive reinforcements, and how a healthy Riqui Puig could change the attack—without automatically solving every problem.
Plus, declining Galaxy attendance, the need for stronger locker-room leadership, potential Designated Player flexibility, and why MLS’s short 2027 sprint season could punish a team that traditionally starts slowly.
What should the LA Galaxy do next: keep Vanney, rebuild the roster, or make sweeping changes? Listen to Corner of the Galaxy for independent LA Galaxy analysis, MLS news, and offseason coverage.
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