LAFC announce new 'strategic partnership' after taking control of Swiss side Grasshopper | OneFootball

LAFC have announced that they've entered into a "long-term strategic partnership" with Swiss Super League side Grasshopper Club Zürich.

Grashopper's previous owner, Jenny Wang, gave up control over the club after the Black and Gold purchased a majority stake in the Swiss outfit.

"We are so excited to partner with GC Zürich. Grasshopper Club Zürich is an iconic brand in both Swiss and European football, with an incredible tradition of success and a foundation built on developing top-level talent," LAFC co-president and chief business officer Larry Freedman said in a release.

"LAFC is honored to work together on this long-term partnership with the GC Zürich community and all the supporters as we begin our collaboration."

"The partnership with GC Zürich aligns with LAFC's global vision of building winning teams by providing unique platforms for the development of top young talent," a club statement read.

It appears that LAFC will look to use Grasshopper as a club to develop their up-and-coming talents with quality first-team experience (or even vice versa) similar to the partnership between Brighton & Hove Albion and Belgian Pro League side Royal Union Saint-Gilloise.

Grasshopper Fussball Stiftung will still act as minority share holders after the sale, LAFC confirmed in the announcement.

Along with the partnership with Grasshopper, LAFC announced that legendary center-back Giorgio Chiellini is set to remain with the club as a 'Player Development Coach.' The Italian recently retired after the Black and Gold's 2023 MLS Cup defeat to Columbus Crew.

The 39-year-old, who originally joined LAFC in July 2022, went on to manage 45 appearances while lifting MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield in the same year. "In his new role, Chiellini will work with LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo and the coaching staff to assist in first-team player development."

LAFC's 2024 season begins on February 24 at BMO Stadium as they clash with Western Conference foes Seattle Sounders.