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LA GALAXY

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández: “I want to retire in Los Angeles”

The Mexican striker continues to recover from a knee injury and wants to remain with LA Galaxy for the remainder of his career.

‘Chicharito’: “Algo decidí bien para que después el ganador del Balón de Oro decidiera venir a la MLS”
Kirby LeeUSA TODAY Sports

In June Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández underwent ACL reconstructive surgery after an injury to his right knee left him sidelined for the rest of the 2023 MLS season.

LA Galaxy have suffered a number of major injuries this season, with Martín Cáceres and Gastón Brugman also out for the foreseeable. But despite picking up a serious injury Chicharito is determined to resume his career with the Galaxy.

At 35 years of age the Mexican national team’s record scorer has no plans to hang up his boots just yet.

Chicharito wants to stay with LA Galaxy

Hernandez may be unavailable for selection but, as captain, he remains a key part of the team. Speaking to reporters recently the former Real Madrid man said that he has no plans to retire and hopes to continue with the Galaxy.

I don’t know when I’m going to retire yet,” Chicharito said. “It could be at the end of this season or in two, three or five more years.”

“It is a decision that I will have to analyse very carefully. If my body continues to respond well, if I still have passion, desire and joy to play, I will continue”.

Chicharito vivió su peor temporada con LA Galaxy en la MLS
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Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez picked up the injury in an Open Cup clash with Real Salt Lake

For Hernandez, staying with LA Galaxy is a top priority. He has scored 39 goals in 82 appearances for the MLS club and, even in his mid-30s, he remains one of the most natural finishers in the league.

My wish is to finish my career in Los Angeles,” Chicharito explained. “If not, we’ll see where, but it depends on many factors.”

Will Chicharito get a new contract with LA Galaxy?

The Mexican’s future is complicated by the fact that his contract with the Galaxy ends on 31 December, leaving the club with a major decision to make. Head coach Greg Vanney said that the club will consider many factors when deciding on Chicharito’s future but much of it will depend on his physical state.

As it stands, there is no new contract on the table for Chicharito but the situation could change in the coming months.

Staying with the Galaxy would allow Chicharito to continue playing at a high level, something that will be crucial to another of his career goals. The Mexican striker is eager to represent his nation at the 2026 World Cup, when they will be one of the hosts. Mexico head coach Jaime Lozano has confirmed that he plans to speak to Hernandez about his role in the national team set up.