LAFC hijack brewing as Liga MX forward pushed toward MLS return | OneFootball

What seemed like such a huge gamble in the Mexican market has grown heavier as a burden. Giorgos Giakoumakis arrived at Cruz Azul as a star following MLS, his popularity riding his reputation at Atlanta United and accompanied by a steady investment: $9 million. The club requested goals, daily box presence, and killer instinct. But up to this point, all they've gotten are missed games, lost minutes, and an appearance marked less by success than doubt.

Cruz Azul, who spent big on him, now have his worth decline to $7.5 million on Transfermarkt. And to make matters worse, the Greek striker has seen not a minute of action in the Concacaf Champions Cup, a competition in which the team has already reached the semifinals.

Form drop clears path for early exit

When the confirmation of Giakoumakis was confirmed, the front office went overboard to drive home the fact that his familiarity with playing in the United States was one of the top concerns. The 30-year-old forward had a good run in Atlanta United, good enough to attract the interest of Mexican soccer and justify the hefty price. But just a few months on, the euphoria was replaced by a dilemma: to keep a player who has not delivered what was hoped for, or cut and run, a decision which waters down the cost. The second option seems to be more and more popular. LAFC emerged as a potential suitor for the striker, in an agreement that would close a short chapter at Cruz Azul and renew his MLS chapter, where he retains a positive image.

LAFC interest shows a market tuned into opportunity

According to information published by Nacion Deportes, Los Angeles FC has reportedly expressed interest in signing Giakoumakis. The team feels he will be able to contribute to the team, especially given what he showed during his previous stint in the North American league. His stint at Atlanta United impressed and set the stage for a return to U.S. soccer.

That he has performed well previously in the United States makes this an attractive package, provided that Cruz Azul does not complicate matters.

Cruz Azul wants to recoup some of its investment

Cruz Azul's indignation regarding the forward's performance does not invalidate the fact that the club paid dearly for him. They sent $9 million to Atlanta United. His valuation now, at $7.5 million, highlights the decline in value over a space of just a few months, and the trend suggests that the Mexican club will try to salvage its losses at least.

Today, the plan seems to be pulling out, but not for anything. The issue is that keeping the player might cost more in financial terms than letting him go with a very minor loss on the original fee.

Chance of a fresh start in familiar environments

Returning to MLS could be Giakoumakis' route to win back his spot. In America, he has already proven he can score, move, and be an asset. LAFC is not just any team, it's one of the league's best-organized and always looks for players who can add to the team without disrupting locker room chemistry.

At 30, the forward still has fuel in the tank, if he's in a situation that appreciates his physical profile, playing style, and rhythm requirement. Time will tell whether there's still space for him in elite soccer. But for now, it appears evident that Mexico might no longer be that place.