Jelle Van Damme might not have been one of the LA Galaxy’s big-name signings in 2016, but he was the most important.
Following the departure of Omar Gonzalez, the Galaxy needed a quality new center back and they got it in the veteran Belgian international, who started in 28 of the team’s 34 games season games as well as all three playoff games.
With Van Damme the Galaxy were tied for second in the league in least goals conceded (39).
The 6-foot-4 and 200-pound defender, who coach Bruce Arena converted from fullback to center back, also showed his attacking qualities throughout the regular season and playoffs, providing five assists. On the defensive side of things he finished third in the league in blocks with 27 and tied for ninth in interceptions with 95.
He might have barely missed out on Goal’s USA Defender of the Year award, but Van Damme is our pick for Newcomer of the Year.
Honorable Mention
Nicolas Lodeiro: With four goals and eight assists in 13 appearances, Lodeiro was instrumental in pushing the Seattle Sounders into the playoffs. They will certainly be looking forward to having the Uruguayan from the start of next year’s campaign.
Carlos Gruezo: His signing went a little under the radar, but Gruezo was excellent in his first season with FC Dallas, bringing much-needed balance to the side in midfield. At 21 years of age, the young designated player looks like a great investment.
Shkelzen Gashi: The Colorado Rapids went from dead last to first in the Western Conference, and Gashi’s arrival is part of the reason. His all-around technical qualities and experience have made the Rapids stronger in several key areas of the field.
Ola Kamara: Kei Kamara wasn’t missed at all this season, following his bitter departure, as Ola Kamara picked up the scoring slack. With an impressive 16 tallies, the Norwegian striker was tied for fifth in the league’s scoring charts.