MLS: Marco Reus drops goal and assist in LA Galaxy debut in MLS, Tim Ream makes first Charlotte FC appearance

After a month away, the MLS regular season resumed, and the stars were out - on the pitch.

Several high-profile summer transfer window signings made their first appearances for their new clubs Saturday night. In a night full of fresh faces, Marco Reus stole the show by assisting on the game-winner against Atlanta United FC, setting up Riqui Puig, and then sealing the contest minutes later with a goal of his own.

The Dortmund legend laid off a simple pass to an onrushing Puig in the box, giving the Galaxy a 1-0 lead in the 76th minute. Then, Reus returned to the box and one-timed a rocket for a precise finish in the 84th minute.

It was a debut that very few in Hollywood could have scripted.

It can take even the best MLS DPs time to adjust to the league, but Reus seemed at ease from the start and likely could have had another goal.

For the Galaxy, this is a significant signal of intent. The team is already first in the Western Conference but has done so quietly, while their city neighbors, LAFC, have created more buzz. If Reus can stay healthy, his presence could solidify Greg Vanney's side as serious contenders.

Reus wasn't the only DP to make a debut in the Galaxy-United match; Alexey Miranchuk also made his first appearance for Atlanta. The midfielder has already endeared himself to MLS fans with his hip-hop takes, but time will tell if he can live up to his $13.5 million price tag.

In the Eastern Conference, U.S. international Tim Ream made his long-awaited return to MLS with Charlotte, ironically going up against his first professional club, the New York Red Bulls. Charlotte drew 1-1 in their home match against New York.

Moving away from debuts, scoring was on display in MLS's return. A whopping 43 goals were scored Saturday, with New England leading the way with five against Montreal. It's a good rebound for Caleb Porter and the Revs, who started the season on a bleak note. Concerns will continue to mount for CF Montreal's Laurent Courtois.

Luca Langoni, another new face in MLS, became the first Revolution player to score a goal and provide an assist in his debut, following his club-record transfer last week from Argentine side CA Boca Juniors.

MLS now awaits the winner of the Leagues Cup final Sunday between LAFC and Columbus Crew in a rematch of the 2023 MLS Cup final. Philadelphia Union and Colorado Rapids will play earlier for third place and a spot in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.