LA Galaxy’s midfield overhaul is still active with the arrivals of Lucas Sanabria and Sean Davis.
The current MLS Cup champions have been searching for fresh legs after trading Mark Delgado and Gastón Brugman.
Now, the emphasis is on how these new players compare to Edwin Cerrillo, the current defensive midfielder.
Sanabria’s potential vs. Davis’ experience
Sanabria, 21, has an admirable skill set from Nacional. In 46 matches, he recorded five goals, four assists, and nine bookings across 3,301 minutes.
His 81% aerial duel success, 58% defensive actions, and 20% chances created show that he embodies an aggressive style of play.
However, his discipline is an issue because he averages a yellow card every 5.1 matches.
Although naturally a defensive midfielder, he has shown some versatility, having played centrally in 13 matches.
Nashville SC midfielder Sean Davis (54) collects a pass during a past match between Nashville SC and Inter Miami on March 7, 2024. (Photo by Matthew Maxey/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
On the other hand, Davis, 32, brings stability and MLS experience to the team. In 25 matches for Nashville in 2024, he won 51% of his aerial duels and made 28% of defensive tackles.
Over his career, he has played 327 games, scored nine times, and provided 19 assists, with only 28 yellow cards. He is, however, more disciplined than Sanabria, as he averages a yellow card every 11.7 games.
He is less aggressive because he prefers positional awareness rather than physical duels. Unlike Sanabria, Davis performs well in controlled build-ups rather than high-risk plays, which enables him to be a firm presence in the middle of the pack.
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How they compare to Cerrillo
Cerrillo has been a good option for the Galaxy. He has registered just one goal and one assist in 131 MLS matches.
However, he has recorded 32 yellow cards, translating to a booking every 4.1 matches, making him the most card-prone among the three.
His defensive numbers—winning 18% of his aerial duels and 45% of his defensive actions—show that he approaches games conservatively.
With all of them fighting for a starting spot, pecking order will likely play a critical role in selecting the matchday squad.
Due to his experience, Davis will probably offer stability by taking on the leadership role.
Sanabria’s flexibility and technical ability could gradually earn him more game time, especially if the manager wants some creativity from deep.
Cerrillo, while dependable, may now become a rotational option, offering depth rather than a starting spot.
The Galaxy’s midfield selection will depend on what the coach needs and the opponent. Davis’ defensive awareness will become vital when playing against stronger teams.
Sanabria’s energy and offensive prowess could be key when pressing high. Cerrillo offers cover but must continuously work hard to regain the favor.
Bigger shoes to fill
Replacing Delgado and Brugman isn’t easy, but the Galaxy have been active this transfer window. Their midfield overhaul also entails the arrival of Elijah Wynder, the 2024 USL Championship Young Player of the Year.
LA Galaxy’s midfield is set to evolve with Sanabria’s vigor, Davis’ experience, and Wynder’s potential. The task now is integrating them into a title-defending team.
For more on LA Galaxy’s offseason moves, check out our piece on the loan deal for a Brazilian forward, Matheus Nascimento.
All stats from Fotmob and Transfermarkt.