Lionel Messi’s former Barcelona teammate makes MLS debut three weeks after joining LA Galaxy

One of Lionel Messi’s former Barcelona teammates has finally joined him in MLS after completing a summer transfer.

Sergi Roberto came through Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy alongside Messi, and they played hundreds of games together.

Having won seven La Liga titles, six Copa del Reys and two Champions Leagues, Roberto left Barca after 18 years in 2024.

The Spaniard then spent two seasons with Italian side Como before joining LA Galaxy earlier this summer.

Three weeks later, Roberto finally made his MLS debut in the Galaxy’s 3-1 defeat to San Diego FC.

Photo by Griffin Hooper/Getty Images

On 8 August, Sergi Roberto signed a two-year contract with LA Galaxy, with the option to extend for another season.

It appears likely that this will be the 34-year-old’s last contract before he retires from professional football.

Roberto made his Galaxy debut as a second-half substitute against San Diego, replacing Maya Yoshida with 30 minutes to go.

Even though they were playing against 10 men, LA Galaxy did not score while the Barcelona legend was on the pitch.

However, Galaxy fans can be optimistic about their star trio of Roberto, Marco Reus and Hirving Lozano.

All three players have competed in the Champions League and should make a significant impact in the MLS.