Sergi Roberto joins LA Galaxy on free transfer until 2028

LA Galaxy have signed former Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto on a free transfer, with the midfielder agreeing a contract until the summer of 2028 and an option to extend it for a further season.

Roberto joins the Major League Soccer club after two seasons with Como 1907 in Serie A, where he made 37 appearances, scoring once and providing one assist. He played a part in Como’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the Italian club’s history.

LA Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz said Roberto’s leadership, technical ability and tactical intelligence made him an important addition to the squad.

“Sergi combines leadership, technical quality, tactical intelligence and experience of winning trophies – a combination of qualities that is rarely found in one player,” Kuntz said.

“He was a key member of some of the best teams of his generation and understands not only what it takes to win, but also what it means to be part of a team accustomed to winning.”

Kuntz added: “Sergi’s character, his ability to play in more than one position and his leadership will be extremely valuable to us, and we are excited to welcome him and his family to LA Galaxy.”

Roberto spent the majority of his senior career with Barcelona, making 373 appearances for the Catalan club and scoring 19 goals. He also served as one of the team’s captains.

During his time at Barcelona, Roberto won seven La Liga titles, six Copa del Rey trophies and six Spanish Super Cups. His honours also include two UEFA Champions League titles, two FIFA Club World Cups and two UEFA Super Cups.

The 34-year-old also represented Spain 11 times and scored one international goal. That goal came in Spain’s 8-0 victory over Liechtenstein in qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

His move to Los Angeles brings an experienced player, capable of operating in several positions, to a squad whose new signing has a long record of success at club level. Roberto’s Barcelona career included domestic and European trophies, while his more recent spell with Como saw him contribute during the club’s rise to the UEFA Champions League.

The agreement means Roberto will remain with LA Galaxy through the end of the 2027-28 season, unless the additional year in his contract is activated. His arrival follows two seasons in Italy and represents his return to a new league after a career defined by his time with Barcelona and Spain.