Hirving Lozano Joins LA Galaxy on Loan Amid Tensions with San Diego FC

Mexican star Hirving Lozano has transferred on loan to LA Galaxy for the remainder of the 2026 MLS season following significant internal conflicts with San Diego FC, where he had not played since November. The 31-year-old had been sidelined for eight months after a public falling-out with the club led to his exclusion from match-day rosters.

“The Galaxy is one of the most important clubs in MLS. It was a great opportunity, and well, I took it. I think it was the right decision,” Lozano told ESPN, expressing optimism about his new start. He could make his debut this Saturday against the Houston Dynamo.

Fallout with San Diego FC

Lozano’s relationship with San Diego deteriorated following disciplinary issues and a heated exchange with head coach Mikey Varas in October 2025. This friction ultimately led the club’s sporting director, Tyler Heaps, to announce that Lozano was not part of their sporting plans for the season. Although there was no definitive breaking point, the player found himself training alone while San Diego explored transfer offers.

Despite his lack of playing time, Lozano’s no-trade clause allowed him to reject offers from other teams, contributing to his absence from the Mexican national team’s roster for this summer’s World Cup.

Galaxy’s Longstanding Interest

LA Galaxy’s acquisition of Lozano is the result of multiple years of attempts to sign him. Galaxy GM Will Kuntz noted that they first targeted him when he was with Napoli, but circumstances—including a transfer ban—made that deal impossible. With the recognition that another key player would miss the season, the Galaxy reignited their interest in Lozano.

Kuntz emphasized the thoroughness of their evaluation, stating, “We called every sporting director he’s worked with, players he played with…really tried to get a full picture of the guy.” The Galaxy sees Lozano as a strategic fit for their lineup, particularly as he can play on the left wing, which allows for better team configuration.

Lozano is among the highest-paid players in MLS, earning approximately $9.33 million, with total compensation possibly near $10 million when considering other agreements. As part of the loan, San Diego has already expended significant funds to keep him off the field, while LA Galaxy has committed to a portion of Lozano’s remaining salary.

Kuntz believes that under the right circumstances, Lozano can contribute effectively on the pitch soon. However, he acknowledged that the player needs to regain his fitness and accelerate his training to adapt to the demands of the season.

The tensions triggered by Lozano’s stint at San Diego have sparked fan reactions, with some supporters even displaying banners at matches calling for his return on social media. As Lozano transitions to the Galaxy, both he and the club hope to turn the page on this tumultuous chapter.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn