LA Galaxy has officially secured the services of Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil on a four-year deal from K.R.C. Genk, marking a significant addition to their attacking prowess. The signing, made under the Designated Player rule, signals the Galaxy’s intent to strengthen their squad for the upcoming seasons.
Paintsil, 26, brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record to the MLS, having notched 61 goals and 35 assists across 228 matches in Europe with K.R.C. Genk, MKE Ankaragücü, and Ferencvárosi TC. His standout performance during the 2022–23 campaign, where he contributed 32 goals (18 goals, 14 assists) in 39 matches for Genk, showcases his attacking prowess and playmaking ability.
LA Galaxy General Manager Will Kuntz expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “Joseph has been a key member of one of the best clubs in Belgium’s top flight and one of Africa’s most prominent national teams over the past few years. We are thrilled to announce that he is joining the LA Galaxy.”
https://www.lagalaxy.com/news/la-galaxy-acquire-ghanaian-international-forward-joseph-paintsil
Paintsil’s impact extends beyond just his goal-scoring ability, as he played a crucial role in helping Genk qualify for the 2023–24 Europa Conference League. LA Galaxy Head Coach Greg Vanney emphasized the dynamic winger’s versatility, both with and without the ball, noting that Paintsil possesses the capacity to change games instantly.
The Accra, Ghana native’s journey to the LA Galaxy includes notable stints with Genk, where he played a pivotal role in their 2018-19 First Division A league championship-winning campaign. Additionally, his time with Turkish side Ankaragücü saw him notch 11 goals in 33 Süper Lig appearances during the 2020–21 season.
Paintsil’s arrival adds a new dimension to the Galaxy’s attacking lineup, and the club is eager to integrate him quickly. As the team sets its sights on future trophies, the signing of Joseph Paintsil signals a bold move by the LA Galaxy, underscoring their commitment to success and exciting football in the upcoming MLS seasons.
