LA Galaxy has secured veteran center-back Mathias “Zanka” Jørgensen from Belgian club Anderlecht. The 34-year-old Danish international joins the team on a two-year contract, running through 2026. This move aims to bolster the Galaxy’s defensive options as they prepare for the 2025 season and various competitions.
Jørgensen’s Extensive Experience in Top European Leagues
Over the course of his career, Jørgensen has accumulated 520 club appearances, scoring 34 goals and contributing 14 assists. He has played in several top European leagues, including the English Premier League with Huddersfield Town and Brentford, the Bundesliga with Fortuna Düsseldorf, Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, and Turkish Süper Lig with Fenerbahçe. His most recent club was Anderlecht in Belgium.
Jørgensen has been a key figure for Denmark, earning 37 international caps and scoring a memorable goal in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He also represented Denmark in the 2020 and 2024 UEFA European Championships, showcasing his international experience and ability to perform on the global stage. This adds valuable depth to the Galaxy’s roster.
Galaxy General Manager Praises Jørgensen’s Experience
Will Kuntz, LA Galaxy’s General Manager, expressed excitement about the new addition. He highlighted Jørgensen’s five Danish league titles, Danish Cup wins, and extensive experience in top-flight football. Kuntz believes Jørgensen’s leadership and talent will be vital for the team as they compete in multiple competitions, including MLS and international tournaments.
The addition of Jørgensen comes as the Galaxy look to shore up their defense following changes to their roster. Key defensive figures like Maya Yoshida are no longer with the team, and Jalen Neal was traded to CF Montréal. With the 2025 MLS season beginning in late February and the Concacaf Champions Cup approaching, Jørgensen’s experience will be crucial for the Galaxy’s upcoming challenges.