LA Galaxy officially announces signing of promising young talent

LA Galaxy has officially acquired Carlos Emiro Garcés on loan from Deportivo Pereira for the 2024 MLS season, with a purchase option.
LA Galaxy has officially acquired Carlos Emiro Garcés on loan from Deportivo Pereira for the 2024 MLS season, with a purchase option. | Gabriel Aponte/GettyImages

The LA Galaxy has made a significant acquisition, announcing the loan signing of Carlos Emiro Garcés from Liga BetPlay Dimayor I club Deportivo Pereira for the remainder of the 2024 MLS season, with an option to purchase.

Garcés, who will occupy an international roster slot, is set to join the Galaxy roster upon the receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.

Carlos Emiro Garcés, aged 22, has displayed immense potential since his debut at the age of 20 in 2021. During his tenure at Deportivo Pereira from 2021 to 2024, Garcés featured in 67 matches, starting 57 of them, and contributed with a goal.

His tenure notably coincided with Pereira's historic league title win during the 2022 Liga BetPlay Dimayor campaign. In the ongoing 2024 Liga BetPlay Dimayor Apertura season, Garcés has already amassed 790 minutes across 10 matches, starting in 9 of them.

LA Galaxy officially announces signing of promising young talent

LA Galaxy General Manager Will Kuntz expressed his enthusiasm about Garcés' arrival, highlighting his experience despite his young age. Garcés' stint with Pereira's championship-winning team, as well as his participation in the 2023 Copa Libertadores competition, reflects his competitive spirit and adds depth to the Galaxy's defensive lineup.

Garcés had a brief loan spell with Primeira Liga outfit Portimonense S.C. at the start of the 2023 season, featuring thrice for the U-23 side. His return to Deportivo saw him make four appearances in the 2023 Copa Libertadores Knockout Stage, aiding Pereira in reaching the Quarterfinals.

LA Galaxy Head Coach Greg Vanney welcomed Garcés, emphasizing his experience in Colombia's top flight at such a young age. The Galaxy looks forward to integrating Garcés into the squad upon his arrival in Los Angeles.

Internationally, Garcés received a call-up to the Colombian National Team for a domestic training camp in October 2022.