LAFC: Walker Zimmerman makes too much sense

Out-of-contract Walker Zimmerman has stated that he would like to return to Los Angeles FC next season. His return to LAFC almost makes too much sense.

Los Angeles FC were ultimately let down by their defence. It was a truly exhilarating first season in MLS, punctuated by some wonderful attacking displays, led by MVP candidate Carlos Vela, the vivacious Diego Rossi, and a midfield boasting the creativity and control of Benny Feilhaber and Lee Nguyen, among others.

But they could not quite compete with the truly elite teams of MLS thanks to a rather leaky defence.

LAFC scored a staggering 68 goals last year. No team in the Western Conference scored more; only Atlanta United, with 70 goals, can better that figure in all of MLS. They truly were a phenomenal attacking unit.

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But they also conceded 52 goals. Of teams that qualified for the playoffs, only Real Salt Lake conceded more. The New York Red Bulls conceded almost 20 fewer goals than LAFC. It is no wonder that they amassed 14 more points. What is more concerning for LAFC is that not only were they poor defensively last season but they could be about to lose one of their key defensive pieces.

Walker Zimmerman is currently out of contract. He is free to talk to any club he wishes and has tried to engineer a move to Europe in the past. His return is far from guaranteed, even if there is a contract offer on the table.

But Zimmerman, according to comments made this week, hopes that he will come back to the Banc of California stadium next season:

"“I’m hopeful it’s LAFC. We’re obviously in talks and I think we’re working towards a deal <…> They made it an organization that you want to be a part of so that’s a big factor whenever you’re in negotiations or you’re out of contract. For me it was positive and I think that goes a long way in terms of future aspirations. It’s a great club, great staff, great teammates. It’s a place I would love to be and I think we’re definitely heading in the right direction so I think the hope is to head back to LA.”"

Zimmerman’s return to LAFC almost makes too much sense. He wants to play for them. They need defensive help, desperately. As long as the money makes sense, and per Zimmerman’s comments, it seems as if they are getting closer, then there is little reason why this will not happen.

Whether Zimmerman is actually a solution to LAFC’s vulnerabilities is another question. He was a better defender than the goals-conceded tally suggests last season. There is little protection from the midfield and his aggressive style can be better harnessed with a calmer, more controlled partner alongside him. But he also has weaknesses himself. He is not always in position, he dives into challenges, and there are some questions over his leadership and organisation of a defence.

That said, even with Zimmerman’s doubts and shortcomings, he would still be a major help to LAFC. This is a deal that makes complete and utter sense. It has to happen, right?