LAFC IS READY FOR 2024
LAFC
It’s not every day an international superstar comes to MLS.
I know the precedent set by Inter Miami last season may give a certain impression, and there’s no lack of international stars in the league today independent of that, but LAFC’s signing of Tottenham’s French legend goalkeeper Hugo Lloris may not be getting the attention it deserves.
LAFC was gutted by a rough loss in the MLS Cup Final last year, soon followed by a departure of top talent from the roster like goalkeepers Maxime Crepeau and John McCarthy, mainstays Kellyn Acosta and Giorgio Chiellini (who is now helping player development), and the contract for Carlos Vela. Bouanga had floated the idea of leaving but will stay on for another season.
Only Vela remains the unanswered question, as he has yet to announce signing plans for this upcoming season.
In their place, general manager John Thorrington got busy and found top talent from the rest of the Americas in Omar Campos, Tomas Angel, and the big news loan of Eduard Atuesta—El Profe—an LAFC legend in its short history for his first team role from 2018-21.
Atuesta’s signing promises hope for a Vela return, as their chemistry undoubtedly contributed to Vela’s Golden Boot/MVP year and LAFC’s first Supporters Shield back in 2019.
In Contention…
In spite of the transfers out and the relatively quiet splash during the transfer window, LAFC is still thought to be Western Conference favorites, even as attention has turned to LA Galaxy for their signings.
But LAFC should be very comfortable running it back with their core. Ilie Sanchez and Mateusz Bogusz remained productive last season and show no signs of stopping now.
Early preseason matches indicate an increased role for homegrown talent Nate Ordaz, who shined when brought up to the first team last summer and finished the season with 2g/1a in all competitions.
While LAFC’s new signings may be the most noteworthy, it’s the core from last season’s run that should generate the most interest. LAFC was a deadly defense last season with one of the best transition offenses in the league, and while the defense may look different this season, that offense fights on.
So How Are We Looking?
The Black & Gold marathoned their way to the MLS Cup Final, the CONCACAF Champions League Final, and the Leagues Cup Quarterfinals last year. With a bit less schedule congestion this season, who knows what this core is capable of?
The marquee signing of Lloris should remind the league of LAFC’s threat. This is a team stacked with talent across international slots, homegrown players, and traditional signings. And this is a team that attracts global notice.
Thorrington has indicated no signs of being done yet. LAFC still has two open Designated Player slots as of February 13. Will Vela return? Time will tell. LAFC, though, are safely ready to make their splash in the West again.
Up Next…
The season begins at home February 24 against rivals Seattle Sounders FC.