'Historic fall from grace' - USMNT icon Alexi Lalas knocks LA Galaxy coach Greg Vanney for winless team's 'unacceptable' MLS form

In a complete reversal from last year, LA Galaxy - defending MLS Cup winners - are winless in their fist nine matches of the 2025 season, and sit dead last in the Western Conference standings. Former USMNT star and MLS defender Alexi Lalas joined the chorus of those critical of the team and coach Greg Vanney.

“Obviously Riqui Puig is out long term, but at some point the excuses for Greg Vanney have to fall on deaf ears,” Lalas said on his podcast, the State of the Union. “I mean, you're looking at a historic fall from grace when it comes to Major League Soccer and your MLS Cup champions... That is not acceptable in general from a Galaxy team, and it's certainly not acceptable mere months after winning MLS Cup.

"And I understand the way that MLS is structured. They had to make decisions and they kind of went all in and obviously it translated into a a result."

The situation in Los Angeles highlights the ongoing challenge for MLS champions to maintain success in a league specifically designed to prevent dynasties. While roster turnover and targeted allocation money constraints affect all teams, historically successful franchises like the Galaxy face heightened scrutiny. However, few reigning champions have struggled as badly as the LA Galaxy, which has only added to the pressure surrounding the team.

Following their sixth loss of the season to Austin FC, LA Galaxy sit at the bottom of the Western Conference with 3 points, the worst record across both conferences. They face Portland Timbers next at the Dignity Health Sports Park on April 27 and then go on the road to face Sporting KC on May 4.