Is there a reason why Christian Ramirez is missing from the LA Galaxy's Starting XI? | OneFootball

The Los Angeles Galaxy have had very little to celebrate this season, especially on offense. With the Western Conference's lowest goal total, the first-year member and veteran forward has been one of the lone bright spots for the defending champions.

After General Manager Will Kuntz made it a priority to trim payroll and focus on the team's success in the future, one the LA Galaxy's leading scorers, Dejan Joveljic was traded to Sporting Kansas City.

That left a void that none other than former Columbus Crew star Christian Ramirez filled when he signed with the six-time MLS Cup winners for $500,000 on the year.

The 34-year-old has proven his worth in an otherwise disastrous season for the LA Galaxy. In 14 games this season, Ramirez has scored four times and recorded an assist.

During the 4-2 loss on the road to the Portland Timbers last month, Ramirez tallied a goal and an assist. He had a part in both scores for the LA Galaxy in another losing effort.

Where has Christian Ramirez been for the LA Galaxy?

The Santa Ana, California native has played sparingly in the past few games for the Los Angeles Galaxy. Christian Ramirez has started three times in the Galaxy's five games this month.

He has been on the field for about 234 minutes (plus potential stoppage time) during the month of May. Ramirez did not play in the 2-0 loss on the road against Real Salt Lake.

As of late, Greg Vanney has elected to play Marco Reus and Diego Fagundez up top more. Even Carlos Garces has been spotted in the forward position.

The result has been nice. Reus has recorded three assists and two goals during May. Joseph Paintsil and Gabriel Pec have not been healthy all year.

Perhaps the LA Galaxy do not see Ramirez being a part of the team after this season. He is one of several players that are in their 30's including Reus, and defensive veterans Miki Yamane and Maya Yoshida.

As the Los Angeles Galaxy appear to fail for the playoffs this year, head coach Greg Vanney has to look at the future. He was recently extended on a new contract through the 2028 MLS season.

Just like the LA Galaxy, Ramirez has won a championship this decade. He won with the 2023 MLS Cup winners, the Columbus Crew against LAFC.

While no major injury has been reported regarding Ramirez's status this whole season, his playing time being reduced can only offer speculation. The LA Galaxy are still without star midfielder Riqui Puig following his untimely ACL tear in last year's MLS Western Conference Finals.

The Los Angeles Galaxy could use Ramirez's scoring prowess when they host the San Jose Earthquakes in the first of two meetings against them this season. Entering Wednesday's matchup, San Jose is tied with Austin FC at 19 points in the MLS Western Conference standings. The LA Galaxy are in last place with a mere four points.