Editorial – The MLS is Back tournament didn’t go the way the Black and Gold wanted. While Los Angeles FC did have flashes of the dominance displayed last season, for the most part, they struggled throughout the tournament. However, that is now in the past and LAFC return to regular season play focused. With it, the silverware they’ve set their sights on.
LAFC Return Focused More Than Ever on Securing Major Silverware
Getting knocked out of MLS is Back was motivation LAFC didn’t really need. From early March, this is a team who have only one mission: Win MLS Cup. After a brief resting period upon their return to Los Angeles, LAFC got right back to work in training. We’ve mentioned before, while this team isn’t in panic mode, there does seem to be a heightened sense of urgency.
Ahead of their first training since returning to LA, Head Coach Bob Bradley, and GM John Thorrington spoke to media. While there was plenty of praise for how the team handled the circumstances, there was a definite sense of disappointment.
“There were moments…where we showed what we need to work on to become a more complete and better team” said Thorrington. “Bob [Bradley], and the staff, and all of us are hard at work to make sure we don’t leave another tournament disappointed” he concluded.
The Final Push
Head Coach Bob Bradley was visibly furious after the Orlando City loss. While the fury has subsided, he still made it clear much more is expected of this squad. “We’re still disappointed to give up the late goal on a set piece, and go to penalties. Closing out games…are things we continue to address” he said.
“The next phase is a really important part of our season. We’ve already played five league games, so the next six will really go a long ways towards the final push.”
Phase One of The Return
The first phase of MLS’ return will feature six matches over the course of three weeks. LAFC will face some very familiar foes during that stretch, making these six matches all the more important. Two matches, including the first match of the return on August 22nd, will be against in-county rival, Galaxy. After the 6-2 thrashing suffered at the hands of LAFC at MLS is Back, this is the matchup to watch.
The other matches include a trip to Seattle to face the Sonders, a visit to Real Salt Lake, and two home matches. One against San Jose Quakes, and the other, against another rival and MLS is Back Tournament Champions, Portland Timbers.
Given the geographical locations of the teams, it’s obvious this was scheduled to limit the amount and distance of travel for all involved. However, it doesn’t make it any less difficult for Los Angeles, as one of the tougher phase one groupings. While narratives will be written surrounding revenge, LAFC need to just focus on winning. Whether it be a multi-goal masterclass or a 1-0 grind, the results are all that matter going forward.
The Return: LAFC News and Notes
The best news for LAFC supporters will be the return of not only the regular season, but of MLS MVP, Carlos Vela. After opting out of playing in Orlando for MLS is Back, all signs indicate he will be with the team and ready to go for the restart.
The most surprising news came from super sub, Adama Diomande. He announced via his social media, and later confirmed by the club, that he and LAFC agreed to mutually part ways. While there was no reason given, Dio did cite being with family in his letter to fans.
It is unclear what this means for his playing career, but the most important thing is that he finds the peace he is searching for. Personally, I wish him and his family the very best in life moving forward, and luck with all future endeavors.
LAFC acquired the number one spot in the MLS Waiver Order, after a trade with Vancouver Whitecaps. LAFC sent 50k in GAM, along with their number 17 spot in the Waiver Order, in exchange for Vancouver’s number one spot.
MLS announced this week that they have canceled the US Open Cup for 2020. While this may not have been the most prized trophy, it is now one less piece of silverware for LAFC to compete for. This means that if Los Angeles want to end the season with a trophy, they will need to go all the way, and win the MLS Cup.
