Ryan Hollingshead inks extension with LAFC taken at BMO Stadium (LAFC)

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LOS ANGELES -- Ahead of LAFC's upcoming playoff run, the team announced on Friday that defender Ryan Hollingshead has signed a contract extension, keeping him in Los Angeles through 2027. The 34-year-old is the latest name to join those such as Sergi Palencia, Timothy Tillman and Nathan Ordaz, who have all inked extensions with the club this season.

"We're thrilled to have come to terms with Ryan on another extension," said LAFC Co-President and General Manager John Thorrington. "Ryan is a valued veteran and fully earned this extension through his consistency and team-first attitude. He leads by example, raises the standard every day, and delivers in big moments."

Hollingshead has been with the squad since 2022 after being acquired in a trade with FC Dallas. He had previously spent the first eight seasons of his MLS career in Dallas, making his debut in 2014.

Regarded as one of the most impactful defenders across the league, he has made 173 appearances for the Black and Gold, tallying 20 goals and 13 assists. The UCLA alum is one of the all-time leading goal-scoring defenders in MLS history, currently tied for the second-most goals in league history by a primarily defensive player. 

A Granite Bay, CA native, Hollingshead played a huge role as LAFC secured its first MLS Cup in 2022 and second Supporters' Shield. The following year, he helped the team earn its second consecutive Western Conference title.

During the 2025 regular season, the defender scored two goals and earned three assists as he made 22 starts. His last goal came in a 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire on August 9, the same match as Son Heung-min's LAFC debut.


Los Angeles will once again rely on his leadership and poise with the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs set to begin next week. The Black and Gold will welcome Austin FC to town as they host game 1 of a best-of-three series on Wednesday, October 29. 

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Hollingshead's playoff experience will certainly come in handy as his squad navigates the chaos and intensity of the postseason. As a justified fan-favorite, LAFC fans can now rest assured knowing that they've locked down a premier defender for another two seasons. 

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