LOS ANGELES -- The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season is here, and Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) stands at a crossroads. After a 2024 campaign filled with flashes of brilliance but marred by inconsistency, the Black & Gold enter the new year with renewed ambition. The club has undergone significant roster changes, tactical adjustments, and a recalibration of expectations. With a blend of veteran leadership, emerging stars, and a high-profile international signing, LAFC is primed to challenge for domestic and continental glory. On the cusp of their season opener, and fresh off the heels of a defeat to the Colorado Rapids in their first appearance in this year's Concacaf Champions Cup tournament, there is a lot to prove for the 2022 MLS Cup champions. 

Strategic Roster Enhancements: A New Look for LAFC

The offseason saw LAFC making key moves to reinforce its squad, particularly in attack. The headline signing is Turkish international Cengiz Ünder, acquired on loan from Fenerbahçe with an option to buy. The 27-year-old winger brings a wealth of experience from European football, having played in Serie A, the Premier League, and Ligue 1. Known for his speed, technical ability, and creativity in the final third, Ünder adds a dynamic element to LAFC’s attack.

His arrival complements the existing firepower of Gabonese forward Denis Bouanga and French veteran Olivier Giroud, who joined the club late in 2024. Bouanga, LAFC’s top scorer last season, will look to build on his form, while Giroud’s presence as a target man provides a different dimension to the attack.

In midfield, LAFC added Yaw Yeboah, a versatile midfielder/defender known for his pace and defensive acumen. With departures of key players like Mateusz Bogusz to Cruz Azul and Cristian Olivera to Grêmio, the midfield was in need of reinforcements. Yeboah’s ability to play multiple roles will be crucial in maintaining balance.

Defensively, Ukrainian fullback Artem Smolyakov was brought in to solidify the backline. LAFC struggled with defensive inconsistencies last season, and Smolyakov’s presence is expected to shore up a unit that conceded crucial goals in high-stakes matches. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive discipline makes him a valuable addition.

Despite these signings, the team did see notable departures, which created a void in certain areas. Players like Bogusz and Olivera played pivotal roles in 2024, and their absence means the new signings must integrate quickly.

Tactical Adjustments and Preseason Performance

Head coach Steve Cherundolo enters his fourth season at the helm, looking to implement refinements to his tactical setup. LAFC is expected to maintain a high-pressing, possession-based approach but with an emphasis on attacking fluidity.

Preseason fixtures, including a key matchup against Liga MX giants Club América, provided a glimpse into the team’s strategy. The biggest takeaway was how Ünder and Bouanga combined on the wings, utilizing their speed and dribbling ability to stretch defenses.

Cherundolo has also experimented with a three-man backline at times, deploying Smolyakov in a more advanced wingback role. The addition of Yeboah means LAFC has options for a more defensively solid midfield when needed.

One of the key areas LAFC must improve is defensive resilience in crucial moments. The 2024 season was defined by frustrating lapses, particularly in knockout competitions. With MLS clubs strengthening across the board, LAFC must find a balance between offensive firepower and defensive structure.

Season Opener and Early Fixtures

The new campaign begins with a marquee clash against Minnesota United at BMO Stadium. Historically, LAFC has performed well against Minnesota, but this match will serve as an early litmus test. With four matches in a 12-day span following the opener, Cherundolo will need to manage his squad effectively.

One of the key early-season challenges will be adapting to the competitive landscape of MLS 2025. Inter Miami, featuring global icons Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, remains a top contender, while the LA Galaxy has strengthened significantly. The Western Conference is more competitive than ever, meaning there is little margin for error.

A particularly intriguing early-season fixture comes against the Colorado Rapids, who defeated LAFC in one of the coldest MLS matches ever last season. That loss was emblematic of LAFC’s struggles in tough away fixtures. Given their track record of falling to the Rapids on the road, the rematch will test the team’s ability to grind out results in difficult environments. 

Key Players to Watch

1. Cengiz Ünder – The Turkish winger is expected to be a game-changer. His ability to create scoring opportunities and stretch defenses will be crucial.
2. Denis Bouanga – The team’s leading scorer in 2024 must maintain his efficiency in front of goal while adapting to new attacking partnerships.
3. Olivier Giroud – The veteran forward brings leadership and a target presence in the box, providing a different dimension to LAFC’s attack.
4. Artem Smolyakov – The Ukrainian defender will be vital in stabilizing the backline and supporting attacking transitions.
5. Yaw Yeboah – His versatility will be crucial in both defensive and midfield roles, especially given the departures in those areas.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

The biggest challenge for LAFC in 2025 will be sustaining consistency over a long season that includes MLS play, the U.S. Open Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures. Depth will be tested, and injuries will play a factor in determining how the squad navigates multiple competitions.

Additionally, MLS roster rules and salary cap restrictions create challenges in squad-building. LAFC’s ability to manage Designated Player spots and integrate talent within financial constraints will be key in maintaining competitiveness.

Another storyline to watch is the impact of external factors such as the Copa América and international duty. Several key players could be called up for national team commitments, which may affect squad depth during crucial stretches of the season.

Fan Engagement and Community Initiatives

Beyond on-field performance, LAFC continues to make strides in strengthening its connection with its passionate fanbase. The club has partnered with the LA County Department of Mental Health for a season-long campaign aimed at raising awareness and providing resources. This initiative highlights LAFC’s commitment to making a positive social impact.

However, the signing of Cengiz Ünder has sparked discussion within the Armenian community in Los Angeles, given historical tensions. Ünder has addressed these concerns publicly, emphasizing the unifying power of football and his commitment to representing the club in a way that honors its diverse fanbase.

The Path to Silverware

LAFC enters 2025 with a roster capable of competing at the highest level, but success will depend on how well the team adapts to its new dynamics. The attacking trio of Bouanga, Giroud, and Ünder has the potential to be among the most potent in MLS, while defensive reinforcements like Smolyakov will be key to addressing past vulnerabilities.

The Western Conference is more competitive than ever, and the pressure is on Cherundolo to deliver. If LAFC can balance its attacking philosophy with defensive solidity, manage the rigors of multiple competitions, and maintain squad harmony, the club has a legitimate shot at lifting silverware in 2025.

For now, the journey begins against Minnesota United. From there, every match will be a test of LAFC’s resilience, tactical evolution, and championship credentials. The Black & Gold faithful are ready. Now it’s up to the players to rise to the challenge.