LA Galaxy get clearance to hold full-team training sessions

The LA Galaxy announced Monday they have been cleared by MLS and local authorities to begin full-team training sessions at Dignity Health Sports Park.

The news comes after MLS finalized the details for the upcoming MLS is Back Tournament, which will take place in Orlando from July 8-Aug. 11, with LA playing at least three games in the tournament, more if they progress to the knockout stage.

The news is promising, because if the Galaxy can maintain this full-team training without any setbacks or major coronavirus outbreaks on the team, it would give them roughly two to three weeks to train in earnest before heading to Florida for another week or two of training before the tournament is scheduled to begin. It’s not the same as a full preseason, but given the still-enhanced precautions teams are going through, including COVID-19 testing every other day during this stretch and through the end of the tournament, we’re in strange times regardless.

The other factor to consider here is that coronavirus infection rates are climbing, both in California and Florida. Will we make it to the tournament opener on July 8? Is it really safe to restart, or must we contend with the risk that will swirl around us for a long time to come? I don’t mean to be a downer but it’s safe to say the coronavirus pandemic isn’t over yet. Hopefully the Galaxy stay safe, and they can continue to prepare for the upcoming tournament in full team sessions.

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