LAFC Faces Turbulent Transition: Cherundolo’s Exit Signals Turning Point for the Club | OneFootball

LAFC’s loss to Messi‘s Miami, and a new coach in Mascherano wasn’t just tactical — it was symbolic. This was a tournament the club and its fanbase had circled. A deep run would have solidified LAFC’s status as a continental contender and offered redemption for the setbacks of 2023: a Concacaf final defeat to Club León and the MLS Cup loss to Columbus. Instead, the early exit added to a mounting sense of frustration across the organization.

Steve Cherundolo takes notes pre-game vs Minnesota (Celso Oliveira / Territorio MLS)

Rumors of internal tension began to surface almost immediately. In the hours after the defeat, as fans took to social media calling for a coaching change — which, to be fair, it wasn't a surprising move given the frustrations over the last few weeks.

Again, the timing is quite telling. While over four seasons, Cherundolo delivered a respectable haul: one MLS Cup, a Supporters’ Shield, and a U.S. Open Cup title, the recent pattern of high-stakes losses — and the inability to establish dominance in international competition — likely eroded internal support that led to a mutual department agreement at season end.

What's Next for LAFC's Coaching Search?

As for who comes next, one name makes more sense than most: Giorgio Chiellini. The Italian legend, who recently returned to Juventus in an executive role, knows the club culture and was a trusted voice under Cherundolo. Though his availability is uncertain, his profile stands out amid other possible successors like assistants Ante Razov or Marc Dos Santos, or even a wildcard hire from abroad — a path that’s worked for clubs like the Vancouver Whitecaps in little known Jasper Sorensøn.

Regardless of the replacement, LAFC is entering a pivotal phase. The foundation is in place—a competitive team, a passionate fanbase, and global ambitions. However, after this week, it’s evident that a new era must begin. The Cherundolo era is ending, in his own terms, as Steve and his family relocate back to Germany.

The margin for error for a second club in a city that swiftly loses interest in anything that isn’t flashy and new will diminish significantly from now on.