Los Angeles FC Squad 2025
Introduction
As one of Major League Soccer’s most dynamic and ambitious clubs, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) continues to set the standard for excellence both on and off the pitch. The 2025 squad reflects the organization’s commitment to blending homegrown talent with international stars, creating a roster capable of competing for domestic and continental honors. With a mix of seasoned veterans, emerging prospects, and high-profile signings, LAFC’s 2025 lineup is a testament to the club’s strategic vision and relentless pursuit of success. This post delves into the depth and quality of the squad, breaking it down by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Maxime Crepeau
- Nationality: Canadian
- Former Clubs: Montreal Impact, Vancouver Whitecaps
- Transfer Fee: Acquired in a trade with Vancouver Whitecaps in 2022
Maxime Crepeau remains a cornerstone of LAFC’s defensive unit in 2025. Known for his exceptional reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Crepeau has established himself as one of MLS’s top shot-stoppers. His ability to read the game and distribute the ball accurately under pressure has been instrumental in LAFC’s build-up play. With over 100 MLS appearances and multiple clean sheets to his name, Crepeau’s experience and leadership continue to inspire confidence in the backline.
- Eldin Jakupovic
- Nationality: Swiss
- Former Clubs: Grasshopper Club Zürich, Hull City, Leicester City
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2023
Eldin Jakupovic brings a wealth of European experience to LAFC’s goalkeeping department. The Swiss veteran, who has played in the English Premier League and UEFA Europa League, serves as a reliable backup to Crepeau. Jakupovic’s agility and composure in one-on-one situations make him a valuable asset, particularly in high-stakes matches. His mentorship of younger players has also been pivotal in fostering a competitive environment within the squad.
- Tomas Romero
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Philadelphia Union II
- Transfer Fee: Signed as a homegrown player in 2021
Tomas Romero represents the future of LAFC’s goalkeeping corps. A product of the club’s youth academy, Romero has steadily progressed through the ranks, earning plaudits for his shot-stopping ability and distribution. While still developing, his performances in training and limited first-team appearances suggest a bright future. Romero’s dedication to improving his game has made him a fan favorite and a potential long-term successor to Crepeau.
Defenders
- Giorgio Chiellini
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Juventus, Fiorentina
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2022
Giorgio Chiellini, though nearing the twilight of his career, remains a defensive stalwart for LAFC. The Italian legend, renowned for his tactical intelligence and physicality, has brought a wealth of experience to the squad. Chiellini’s leadership on and off the pitch has been invaluable, helping to organize the defense and mentor younger players. His ability to read the game and make crucial interventions has solidified LAFC’s backline.
- Jesus Murillo
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Independiente Medellín, Corinthians
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2021
Jesus Murillo has emerged as one of LAFC’s most consistent performers in defense. The Colombian center-back combines strength, aerial prowess, and composure on the ball, making him a formidable presence in both defensive and attacking set-pieces. Murillo’s partnership with Chiellini has been a key factor in LAFC’s defensive solidity, and his ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with the team’s style of play.
- Ryan Hollingshead
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: FC Dallas
- Transfer Fee: Acquired in a trade in 2022
Ryan Hollingshead’s versatility and work rate have made him an indispensable part of LAFC’s defensive unit. Capable of playing as a full-back or wing-back, Hollingshead’s energy and crossing ability add an extra dimension to the team’s attack. His defensive discipline and ability to track back quickly have also been crucial in neutralizing opposition wingers. Hollingshead’s consistency and professionalism have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.
- Sergi Palencia
- Nationality: Spanish
- Former Clubs: Barcelona B, Saint-Étienne
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2023
Sergi Palencia’s technical ability and tactical awareness have made him a key figure in LAFC’s defense. The Spanish right-back, who came through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, brings a high level of technical proficiency and composure to the team. Palencia’s overlapping runs and precise crosses have been a constant threat down the flank, while his defensive contributions have been equally impressive.
- Diego Palacios
- Nationality: Ecuadorian
- Former Clubs: SD Aucas, Willem II
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2019
Diego Palacios continues to be a reliable presence at left-back for LAFC. The Ecuadorian international’s pace, dribbling ability, and defensive acumen make him a well-rounded full-back. Palacios’ ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has been a key component of LAFC’s tactical setup. His performances have also earned him regular call-ups to the Ecuador national team, further highlighting his quality.
Midfielders
- Ilie Sanchez
- Nationality: Spanish
- Former Clubs: Barcelona B, Sporting Kansas City
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2022
Ilie Sanchez’s intelligence and technical ability have made him the linchpin of LAFC’s midfield. The Spanish midfielder excels in dictating the tempo of the game, breaking up opposition attacks, and distributing the ball with precision. Sanchez’s leadership and experience have been crucial in guiding the team through high-pressure situations. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions has been a cornerstone of LAFC’s success.
- José Cifuentes
- Nationality: Ecuadorian
- Former Clubs: América de Quito
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2020
José Cifuentes has established himself as one of MLS’s most dynamic midfielders. The Ecuadorian international’s energy, vision, and goal-scoring ability have made him a key contributor to LAFC’s attack. Cifuentes’ ability to drive forward with the ball and link up with the forwards has been instrumental in creating scoring opportunities. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, further enhancing his reputation.
- Timothy Tillman
- Nationality: German-American
- Former Clubs: Bayern Munich II, Greuther Fürth
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2023
Timothy Tillman’s creativity and technical skills have added a new dimension to LAFC’s midfield. The German-American playmaker, who came through Bayern Munich’s youth system, brings a high level of technical proficiency and tactical awareness to the team. Tillman’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and dribbling has been a key factor in LAFC’s attacking success. His versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, making him a valuable asset.
- Eduard Atuesta
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Independiente Medellín, Palmeiras
- Transfer Fee: Returned on loan in 2024
Eduard Atuesta’s return to LAFC has been a major boost for the team. The Colombian midfielder, who previously played a pivotal role in the club’s early success, brings creativity, vision, and defensive discipline to the midfield. Atuesta’s ability to control the game and deliver pinpoint passes has been crucial in LAFC’s build-up play. His experience and leadership have also been invaluable in guiding the younger players.
- Francisco Ginella
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Montevideo Wanderers
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2020
Francisco Ginella’s tenacity and work rate have made him a key figure in LAFC’s midfield. The Uruguayan midfielder’s ability to win duels, break up play, and distribute the ball effectively has been crucial in maintaining the team’s balance. Ginella’s energy and commitment have endeared him to the fans, and his performances have been a testament to his dedication and professionalism.
Forwards
- Carlos Vela
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Arsenal, Real Sociedad
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer in 2018
Carlos Vela remains the face of LAFC and one of MLS’s most iconic players. The Mexican forward’s technical brilliance, vision, and goal-scoring ability have made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Vela’s ability to create something out of nothing has been a hallmark of his time at LAFC, and his leadership on and off the pitch continues to inspire the team. Despite entering the latter stages of his career, Vela’s impact remains undiminished.
- Denis Bouanga
- Nationality: Gabonese
- Former Clubs: Saint-Étienne, Nîmes
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2022
Denis Bouanga’s pace, dribbling, and finishing have made him one of LAFC’s most exciting attacking players. The Gabonese forward’s ability to take on defenders and score from difficult angles has been a key factor in the team’s success. Bouanga’s work rate and willingness to track back have also been crucial in maintaining the team’s defensive shape. His performances have earned him widespread acclaim and a growing fan base.
- Cristian Arango
- Nationality: Colombian
- Former Clubs: Millonarios, Benfica
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed fee in 2021
Cristian Arango’s goal-scoring prowess and movement off the ball have made him a vital part of LAFC’s attack. The Colombian striker’s ability to find space in the box and finish clinically has been a constant source of goals for the team. Arango’s physicality and aerial ability have also made him a threat in set-piece situations. His contributions have been instrumental in LAFC’s pursuit of silverware.
- Kwadwo Opoku
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Former Clubs: Unattached
- Transfer Fee: Signed as a free agent in 2021
Kwadwo Opoku’s raw talent and potential have made him one of LAFC’s most exciting prospects. The Ghanaian forward’s pace, dribbling, and ability to take on defenders have been a constant source of excitement for the fans. Opoku’s development has been a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent, and his performances suggest a bright future ahead.
Conclusion
The 2025 Los Angeles FC squad is a perfect blend of experience, talent, and potential. With a strong core of seasoned professionals and a crop of emerging stars, the team is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The club’s strategic recruitment and commitment to developing young talent have laid the foundation for sustained success. As LAFC continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in MLS, the 2025 squad stands as a testament to the organization’s ambition and vision. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.