“LAFC secures the services of a highly productive 29-year-old goal-scorer with a two-year contract

LOS ANGELES (AP) — LAFC has inked prolific goal-scorer Denis Bouanga to a two-year contract extension, extending his tenure through the 2027 campaign, with a team option for 2028, the club announced Friday. This deal solidifies Bouanga as a cornerstone of LAFC’s offensive strategy for the next several seasons.

The 29-year-old Bouanga, who earned the Golden Boot as Major League Soccer’s leading scorer in 2023 with 20 regular-season goals, also secured an MLS All-Star berth and was a finalist for MVP.

His lightning-fast pace and precise finishing made him not only the top scorer in the CONCACAF Champions League but also the leading goal-scorer across all competitions in MLS, with 38 goals, as LAFC reached its second consecutive MLS Cup Final.

“Denis has made an incredible impact on LAFC and our league over the last two seasons and has been critical to our success,” said LAFC general manager John Thorrington. “We are excited to see one of the best players in the league make this long-term commitment to LAFC and continue our commitment to winning championships in Los Angeles.”

Bouanga, originally from France and representing Gabon internationally, joined LAFC from Saint-Étienne in August 2022. While his first season saw a modest scoring record, with just one goal in seven appearances, that lone strike secured the Supporters’ Shield in stoppage time against Portland.

However, Bouanga’s sophomore season showcased his true offensive prowess, leading LAFC to its inaugural league championship. With his emergence, he has assumed the mantle of LAFC’s primary offensive threat, stepping into the shoes of former MVP Carlos Vela, who remains unsigned for the current season.

LAFC is hopeful of re-signing Vela, the club’s inaugural player, to further bolster its attacking lineup.