The former USMNT star has made bold claims about the LAFC star, suggesting the forward has the quality to improve any team in the world
Lalas highlights Bouanga's consistent goal-scoring prowess in MLSFox analyst believes he should be a transfer target for clubsBouanga has contributed to 55 goals across his previous two seasonsGet the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED
After Denis Bouanga ended his cold streak with a goal against the San Jose Earthquakes on April 12 – and followed it up with a strong all-around performance in LAFC’s 3-3 draw with the Portland Timbers – many fans believe the Gabonese LAFC forward is returning to top form. Like many of his teammates, Bouanga had a slow and inconsistent start to the season, but he’s shown signs of resurgence with two goals in his last two games. His uptick in form has coincided with LAFC’s overall improvement, fueling optimism that he’s back to his best.
That belief is shared by former USMNT star Alexi Lalas, who made a bold statement about Bouanga's talent on his podcast.
“Denis Bouanga, by the way, was everywhere,” Lalas said. “That man. If I’m any team in the world, I am looking at him. I’m thinking, ‘Hey, this is somebody who can make our team better.’ And I mean any team in the world – I think he can play for them.”
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Bouanga has been a standout star for LAFC, even though he initially struggled when he first signed, but things soon kicked off for both parties. The now 30-year-old ended his first full regular season in the MLS (2023) with 20 goals and five assists, which won him the Golden Boot. He continued in the same vein of form in the 2024 season, netting 20 goals again and 10 assists, with only Christian Benteke outdoing him by three goals to the Golden Boot.
Getty Images SportWHAT’S NEXT?
The summer transfer window approaches with Bouanga continuing to showcase his abilities for LAFC in league and continental competition. However, before that, both Bouanga and LAFC have a tough run as they look to fight their way back up the Western Conference and into Supporters' Shield contention. They currently sit in seventh place with 13 points and face St. Louis next on April 27 before hosting the Houston Dynamo on May 3.
