Chicharito’s 4-year Galaxy career comes to an end

Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez confirmed on Friday that he’s leaving the Galaxy.

Hernandez, who missed the majority of last season with an ACL injury in his right knee, joined the Galaxy for the 2020 season from Sevilla FC, on a three-year contract. An option for 2023 was picked up after his 2022 season. His contract expires at the end of the year.

In an Instagram post, the 35-year-old forward said: “Life becomes exciting when you allow yourself to change and evolve to new challenges. Thanks to everyone who was involved in my journey these 4 years. Thank you for everything.”

The Galaxy later confirmed the move.

Considered one of the greatest Mexican players, Hernandez played in just 12 games in his first MLS season and scored two goals. He bounced back in 2021 and scored 17 goals in 21 games and in 2022 scored 18 in 34 games. His 38 goals rank him seventh all-time in Galaxy history.

This season, Hernandez suffered the knee injury in a U.S. Open Cup game against Real Salt Lake on June 7. He went down on a non-contact play.

“I know with his work rate and with his passion and desire to be out there, he’s going to do the work and he’s going to put himself in position to come back and continue to play the game,” Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said days after the injury.

Hernandez’s departure gives the Galaxy two open Designated Player slots, with Douglas Costa also departing. Hernandez was the fourth-highest player in MLS, with a base salary of $6 million and a guaranteed compensation salary of $7,443,750.