LA Galaxy Targets Former Brazil and Barcelona Star Amid Mental Health Struggles

Philippe Coutinho could replace injured Riqui Puig, but Galaxy must first address international player slot issue.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 10:55pm

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The Los Angeles Galaxy are reportedly considering signing former Brazil and Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho to replace the injured Riqui Puig. Coutinho, 33, recently left Brazilian club Vasco da Gama as a free agent, citing mental health struggles and criticism from fans. However, the Galaxy would need to free up an international player slot to sign Coutinho, who does not qualify as a Designated Player.

Why it matters

The potential signing of Coutinho would be a high-profile move for the Galaxy as they look to replace the production of Puig, who suffered a serious knee injury. Coutinho's history of success at the top levels of the game could make him an intriguing addition, but his recent mental health challenges raise questions about his long-term fit. The Galaxy will have to weigh the potential upside against the risks.

The details

According to reports, the Galaxy have not yet made a formal offer to Coutinho, but the club is interested in signing him. To complete the deal, the Galaxy would first need to acquire an additional international player slot, which can cost around $500,000. Coutinho would also not be eligible as a Designated Player, as the Galaxy's three DP slots are already filled.

  • The 2026 MLS season is about to begin.
  • The MLS transfer window does not close until March 26, 2026.

The players

Riqui Puig

A midfielder who played for the LA Galaxy until suffering a serious knee injury that will keep him out for the 2026 season.

Philippe Coutinho

A 33-year-old midfielder who previously played for Barcelona and the Brazil national team. He recently left Brazilian club Vasco da Gama as a free agent, citing mental health struggles.

Joao Klauss

One of the LA Galaxy's three Designated Players.

Gabriel Pec

One of the LA Galaxy's three Designated Players.

Joseph Paintsil

One of the LA Galaxy's three Designated Players.

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What they’re saying

“Being judged by countless people for something that is not part of my character is extremely difficult. I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates, or Vasco. I have never done that anywhere I've been.”

— Philippe Coutinho

“The truth is, I am very mentally exhausted.”

— Philippe Coutinho

What’s next

The LA Galaxy must first free up or acquire an international player slot in order to register Philippe Coutinho, which could cost around $500,000. The club has until March 26, 2026, when the MLS transfer window closes, to finalize any potential deal.

The takeaway

The potential signing of Philippe Coutinho highlights the LA Galaxy's need to replace the injured Riqui Puig, but also raises concerns about Coutinho's recent mental health struggles and the club's ability to fit him under the league's roster rules. The Galaxy will have to carefully weigh the risks and rewards of adding the former Brazil and Barcelona star.