Los Angeles FC (LAFC) has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse in Major League Soccer (MLS) since its inception in 2018. The club has attracted top-tier talent from around the world and made an immediate impact in both domestic and international competitions.
We ranked the 10 best LAFC players of all time, showcasing the players who have left an undeniable legacy at the club and helped shape its identity on and off the field.
10. Eduard Atuesta
Eduard Atuesta was a cornerstone of LAFC’s midfield, providing a perfect blend of technical skill and vision. The Colombian international was renowned for his exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a match.
Atuesta played a vital role in LAFC’s early success, earning All-Star honors and MLS Best XI in 2019 and 2021 respectively. He concluded his fifth season at the club in 2024 with his creativity and composure under pressure making him one of the club’s most important players
9. Cristian Arango
Cristian Arango is one of the most prolific goal scorers in LAFC’s history and scored 14 goals in his first 17 games. The Colombian striker quickly made an impact with his clinical finishing, sharp movement, and ability to score crucial goals.
Arango played a pivotal role in helping LAFC capture the 2022 MLS Cup, with his composed performances and key strikes. His ability to lead the attack and consistently deliver in big moments solidified his place as one of the club’s greatest players before a move to MX Liga after two seasons.
8. Latif Blessing
Latif Blessing has been a fan favorite for his endless work rate, versatility, and high energy in midfield. The Ghanaian international was the engine that powered LAFC’s midfield, offering a combination of defensive stability and offensive drive.
Blessing’s tenacity and ability to win tackles, combined with his contributions going forward, made him an indispensable part of the squad across 145 games. His dynamic presence and passion for the game culminated in winning the Supporters’ Shield twice, and the MLS Cup.
7. Giorgio Chiellini
Juventus all-time great Giorgio Chiellini brought a wealth of experience and world-class defending to LAFC after joining the club in 2022 from Juventus. The Italian veteran, known for his leadership and tactical intelligence, helped solidify LAFC’s defense across two seasons and 31 games in total.
His ability to read the game and command the backline was instrumental in the team’s defensive improvement, and his composure under pressure was vital in their 2022 MLS Cup-winning campaign. Chiellini’s presence has helped elevate LAFC’s defensive unit to one of the most formidable in the league.
6. Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale’s time at LAFC may have been brief, but the Welsh forward’s impact was monumental. Bale’s experience, technical ability, and knack for delivering in big moments made him an invaluable asset.
His crucial header in the 2022 MLS Cup final, which tied the game in the dying moments, encapsulated his ability to rise to the occasion. Although he was only at the club for a short period, Bale’s contribution to LAFC’s first-ever MLS Cup victory solidified his place as one of the club’s greatest players.
5. Jesús Murillo
Jesús Murillo has been a central figure in LAFC’s defense since joining the club in 2020, finishing his fifth season at the club in 2025. The Colombian defender’s physicality, aerial ability, and leadership qualities have made him one of the top center-backs in MLS.
Murillo has been instrumental in helping LAFC secure a solid defensive foundation while also contributing to the attack with his ability to score set-piece goals. His presence in the backline was key to the club’s MLS Cup triumph in 2022, making him one of the best defenders in LAFC history.
4. Diego Rossi
Diego Rossi was one of the first stars to emerge from LAFC’s ambitious project. The Uruguayan forward’s pace, skill, and finishing ability made him one of the most dangerous players in MLS during his time in Los Angeles. Rossi played a key role in the club’s offensive juggernaut, forming a deadly partnership with Carlos Vela.
His goal scoring prowess helped LAFC clinch the 2019 Supporters’ Shield, and his time at the club will always be remembered for his significant contributions in the attack after scoring 59 goals in four seasons, earning three All-Star selections, and winning the 2020 Golden Boot.
3. Ilie Sánchez
Ilie Sánchez has been a standout performer in LAFC’s midfield since his arrival in 2022. The former Barcelona youth academy alumni immediately provided stability, vision, and composure to the center of the park following his arrival, allowing those arround him to shine.
Sánchez’s tactical awareness, passing accuracy, and ability to break up opposition attacks have made him a crucial part of LAFC’s midfield setup. The Spanish defensive midfielder has provided leadership on and off the field, combined with his consistent performances, earning him a place among the club’s best players.
2. Denis Bouanga
Denis Bouanga is one of the most exciting and dynamic players in LAFC’s current roster. The Gabonese forward quickly made a name for himself with his electrifying pace, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing helping to transform LAFC completely.
Bouanga’s performances in the 2022 MLS Cup run were a testament to his ability to perform under pressure. In 2023 he scored 20 goals in the 2023 MLS campaign to win the Golden Boot, and scored 38 goals in all competitions earning LAFC a CONCACAF Champions League final appearance.
1. Carlos Vela
Carlos Vela is the undisputed icon of LAFC’s rise to prominence in Major League Soccer. The Mexican forward’s skill, vision, and leadership have defined the club’s identity since its inaugural season. Vela’s goal-scoring ability is legendary, with his record-breaking 34 goals in the 2019 season (along with 15 assists) still etched in MLS history.
As the team’s captain and talisman, Vela has not only contributed with goals and assists but has also played a crucial role in mentoring younger players. His influence both on and off the field has made him the greatest player in LAFC history. All up he scored 93 goals in 187 appearances and helped the club win the MLS Cup in 2022.
Conclusion: LAFC’s Finest Players and Their Legacy
The players listed here represent the pinnacle of LAFC’s success, from their early days as an expansion team to their triumphs on the field. These players have shaped the club’s identity, driven it to championships, and built a legacy that will last for generations.
Whether it’s Carlos Vela’s dazzling goals, Giorgio Chiellini’s leadership, or Cristian Arango’s deadly finishing, LAFC’s best players have brought excitement, skill, and passion to Los Angeles soccer. As the club continues to grow and attract world-class talent, the legacy of these 10 players will remain a vital part of LAFC’s story.
