Flamengo braced as LAFC’s wildcard entry shakes up Club World Cup | OneFootball

Los Angeles FC’s path to the FIFA Club World Cup has taken a sharp turn, and now all eyes are set on Flamengo—a meeting that will shape both clubs’ international ambitions. The Californian side secured their place in the tournament after a late reshuffle: with León excluded due to a shared ownership issue with Pachuca (the reigning Concacaf champions), LAFC, as runners-up in the continent, earned a World Cup ticket over América-MEX, who led the regional ranking at the cutoff date.

Despite this unexpected entry and the advantage of a special transfer window running until June 10 for competing teams, LAFC are not expected to overhaul their current squad. The club had aimed high in the market, with legitimate interest in luring Antoine Griezmann from Atlético Madrid. The French forward’s emotional ties—playing in MLS alongside compatriots Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud—made the move attractive to both parties. However, Atlético ended the speculation with an official announcement of Griezmann’s contract extension through 2027, ending LAFC’s pursuit, at least for now.

LAFC’s roster is anchored by well-known figures under the Designated Player Rule. Giroud brings World Cup-winning pedigree and arrives from Milan to bolster the attack, while Denis Bouanga—who scored the critical goal securing their Club World Cup place—remains one of the key offensive threats. The Turkish international Cengiz Ünder, on loan from Fenerbahçe, has yet to cement his place as a regular starter and appears likely to return to Turkey, potentially after the tournament, opening another slot for a marquee name.

The latest addition to Steve Cherundolo’s side is midfielder Ryan Raposo, signed through 2025 with an option for another year. The Canadian, formerly of Vancouver Whitecaps, tallied over 120 MLS appearances and three Canadian Championship titles, making him a solid, versatile reinforcement. General manager John Thorrington described Raposo as “a dynamic player who will be a great addition to our squad.”

The LAFC squad is defined by experience and some local flavor. Hugo Lloris, a World Cup winner with France, leads the defense, while ex-Fluminense and 2023 Libertadores champion Marlon strengthens the back line. Familiar to Flamengo fans is midfielder Igor Jesus, once of the Rio giants’ youth system, who scored a crucial equalizer in the qualification-sealing match.

Rather than banking on last-minute signings, LAFC are betting on group cohesion and a steady core, mixing high-profile stars with seasoned professionals and promising South American talent. With Flamengo preparing for a busy stretch—balancing domestic, continental, and global challenges—LAFC’s consistent group could offer a distinct advantage at the Club World Cup, even as final roster moves remain possible before kickoff.

Source: Lance