Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has strengthened its roster ahead of their upcoming match against the Houston Dynamo by signing midfielder Matt Evans and defender Eddy Berumen on a short-term loan agreement from LAFC2 of MLS NEXT Pro. The duo will be available for Sunday’s road match at Shell Energy Stadium, kicking off at 5:30 p.m. PT. Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, which is currently available at a 50% discount, as well as on ESPN LA 710 AM and ESPN 980 AM La Mera Mera.
Rising Stars from LAFC2
Matt Evans, an 18-year-old midfielder, has been a standout performer for LAFC2 this season, scoring two goals in 13 appearances. A product of the LAFC Academy, Evans joined the U-12 team and made his MLS NEXT Pro debut in 2023. The Simi Valley native has already made his mark on the international stage, representing both the United States and Guatemala at the youth national team level.
Eddy Berumen, a 23-year-old defender, joined LAFC2 in June after a stint with the Las Vegas Lights in the USL Championship. Berumen, who made a name for himself as a standout player at UC-Irvine, was named to the Big West All-Freshman Team in 2019. His addition to the squad brings experience and defensive solidity, which will be crucial for LAFC in their upcoming fixtures.
Short-Term Loan Regulations
Under MLS rules, the short-term loan agreement allows clubs to sign players from their MLS NEXT Pro teams for specific matches. Each player can be included on up to four MLS league season match rosters per season but can only appear in a maximum of two MLS league season matches. However, players on short-term agreements can participate in any number of non-league games during their four allowed agreements.
Strategic Depth for Upcoming Matches
The inclusion of Evans and Berumen provides LAFC with valuable depth and flexibility as they navigate a busy schedule. Head coach Steve Cherundolo will have additional options to bolster his squad as they face the Houston Dynamo, a crucial match in their MLS campaign.
Looking Ahead
As LAFC continues to build on their strong season, the short-term additions of Evans and Berumen from LAFC2 underscore the club’s commitment to developing young talent and integrating them into the first team. This strategy not only provides immediate benefits on the pitch but also ensures a steady pipeline of talent for the future.
With Evans and Berumen poised to make an impact, LAFC fans will be eagerly watching to see how these young players contribute in the high-stakes environment of Major League Soccer.
Transaction Details
– Player: Matt Evans
– Position: Midfielder
– Age: 18
– Height: 5’8″
– Weight: 145 lbs.
– Hometown: Simi Valley, California
– Birthplace: Simi Valley, California
– Player: Eddy Berumen
– Position: Defender
– Age: 23
– Height: 6’1″
– Weight: 180 lbs.
– Hometown: Irvine, California
– Birthplace: Irvine, California
LAFC’s move to bring in these promising players on short-term loans is a testament to the club’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to nurturing homegrown talent. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Evans and Berumen seize their opportunities to shine on the MLS stage.
