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Los Angeles FC is experiencing a pivotal 2025 season, which marks the end of Steve Cherundolo’s tenure as head coach. Cherundolo is set to step down at the end of this campaign, closing an era that saw LAFC rise to prominence in Major League Soccer, winning the 2022 MLS Cup and twice lifting the Supporters’ Shield in 2019 and 2022[1].

Roster moves ahead of the 2025 season have shaped the current squad, with LAFC holding 19 players under contract after exercising options on several key contributors such as Adrian Wibowo, Sergi Palencia, Eddie Segura, Hugo Lloris, and David Ochoa. Meanwhile, the club declined options on high-profile veterans including Carlos Vela and Kei Kamara but remains in talks with Vela regarding his future. LAFC also saw midfield transfer activity, notably sending Bajung Darboe to FC Bayern Munich, and are working to secure loaned players Lewis O’Brien and Eduard Atuesta. The offseason also brought the arrival of star international forwards Olivier Giroud and Cengiz Ünder, veteran striker Jeremy Ebobisse, and several new midfield and defensive pieces, aiming to solidify squad depth and address recent departures[2][4].

The Black and Gold recently made global headlines by clinching the final berth in the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. LAFC secured their spot with a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Club América, highlighted by Denis Bouanga’s 115th-minute winner. This result makes LAFC the third MLS club to qualify for the tournament, where they will compete in Group D against Chelsea (England), Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia), and Flamengo (Brazil). The group stage matches are set to take place in Atlanta (June 16), Nashville (June 20), and Orlando (June 24)[3][5].

As of July 2025, LAFC stands at the halfway mark of its MLS schedule, having played 17 of 34 matches. The team has allowed the third-fewest goals in the Western Conference and is fifth in points per game. LAFC’s home form remains a strength, with a record of 6 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw at BMO Stadium. Head coach Cherundolo emphasized that consistency, especially balancing strong and weak performances, will be crucial for a successful playoff push in the second half of the season[7].

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