LAFC signs Uruguayan forward Cristian Olivera from Almeria

The Pride flag is seen among LAFC fans during the CONCACAF Champions League final leg 2 of 2 match between Los Angeles Football Club and Club Leon at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, June 4, 2023. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
The Pride flag is seen among LAFC fans during the CONCACAF Champions League final leg 2 of 2 match between Los Angeles Football Club and Club Leon at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, June 4, 2023. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) /
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The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has once again showcased its ambition in the transfer market by signing the young Uruguayan forward Cristian Olivera from Almeria, of LaLiga. The signing is another successful move for the Californian team in its pursuit of international talents who can add quality to the squad and keep the club competitive in Major League Soccer (MLS).

At just 21 years old, Olivera has already demonstrated great potential and promise in his career. While he had limited opportunities at Almeria, his loan spells at Uruguayan clubs such as Peñarol and Boston River were crucial for his development. His time at Boston River, where he scored 10 goals and provided eight assists in 38 games, showcased his attacking prowess and versatility on the field.

Olivera’s signing comes as no surprise to LAFC fans, who have already witnessed the successful arrivals of other Uruguayan forwards in the past, such as Diego Rossi and Brian Rodríguez. This approach has proven to be effective for the club, which has a track record of success in signing South American talents.

With Olivera’s arrival, LAFC strengthens its attacking options, which already include names like Dénis Bouanga, Carlos Vela, and Stipe Biuk. This increases tactical choices for the coach and provides greater internal competition for a place in the starting lineup.

Furthermore, LAFC’s success in recent seasons, clinching the MLS Cup and Supporter’s Shield titles, demonstrates the club’s seriousness and ambition to be one of the league’s main contenders.

Olivera’s signing also reflects LAFC’s long-term vision. By securing a contract until 2026, with an option for 2027, the club shows its willingness to invest in young talents and sees the Uruguayan forward as a player with the potential to grow and become a key piece in the team.

The arrival of new players can also bring challenges for the coach and coaching staff, as it is necessary to balance squad harmony and ensure each player fits into their role within the team.

With only 11 games remaining in the regular season, LAFC is well positioned in the Western Conference standings, just four points behind the leaders St. Louis CITY SC. The team has every chance of competing for the title, and Olivera’s signing is an important step towards achieving this goal.

The signing of Cristian Olivera by LAFC is a wise decision that reflects the club’s strategy of seeking international talents, reinforcing the squad, and staying competitive in the league. Now, it is up to the young Uruguayan forward to meet expectations and prove his worth on the field, contributing to LAFC’s success in the pursuit of more trophies and titles in the MLS.