Los Angeles FC (LAFC) is currently the epicenter of growing speculation as two high-profile players, Odin Thiago Holm and Paul Pogba, find themselves at the forefront of the club’s recent developments. Amidst the MLS season's action, Holm remains sidelined with injury, and Pogba's recent appearance at LAFC games has raised eyebrows about his future.
Odin Thiago Holm, the 22-year-old midfielder, was loaned to LAFC from Celtic, energized as the club aimed to bolster their squad. Unfortunately, as of March 18, 2025, Holm has yet to make his debut for LAFC, primarily due to concerns over his ankle injury, which has seen him classified as "unavailable" on several matchday reports. Despite anticipation surrounding his addition to the team, Holm’s name had just been removed from the player status report before the match against Austin FC on March 15, indicating he was available for selection. Shockingly, he still did not appear on the pitch during LAFC's 1-0 defeat.
The mid-match absence of Holm left fans wondering about his fitness and future with the team, as he was marked as "questionable" for the previous matchup against Seattle Sounders. Holm has been spotted training with his teammates, and LAFC’s Co-President and General Manager John Thorrington expressed optimism about his capabilities. "Odin is very good technically and as a young player has the ability to read the game well," Thorrington remarked, emphasizing Holm’s potential to contribute to LAFC’s ambitions of winning multiple trophies this season.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has stirred up conversation after attending LAFC's home game against Austin FC, where the club experienced its unfortunate loss. The attendance was particularly significant as it allowed Pogba to reconnect with former France international teammates Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris, which rapidly ignited speculation among fans for his imminent joining of the club. Not only was there excitement about the potential reunion, but Pogba’s presence on U.S. soil also highlighted the possibility of him joining the MLS, especially with its transfer window still open.
Pogba's future has been under the spotlight, especially after his doping ban ended recently. Observers have noted his willingness to remain as a free agent until the summer to reevaluate his options, with eyes on returning to European leagues to secure his position for the French national team, enhancing his chances for the France's 2026 World Cup roster. Currently, teams like Fiorentina and Marseille have shown some interest, alongside speculation around potential moves within La Liga.
Reflecting on Pogba's chance to perhaps unite with old friends, Thorrington commented on LAFC's strategy of attracting star players. “Big-name players aren't necessary when building championship culture, but they fit our team’s strategy,” he explained to The Mirror U.S.. This sentiment aligns with the essence of LA as “a city of stars” where talented players can automatically gain attention and support. Thorrington noted the importance of distinguishing between marketing benefits and the actual contributions players can make on the field.
The dual stories of Holm and Pogba frame LAFC as they navigate the current season, emphasizing tactical decisions rooted not just on existing teamwork but also on potential futures with star players. Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, also touched upon Pogba’s situation, saying, "We’re talking, and I won’t tell you the details. Yes, he has the ability and the mentality to return to the highest level. It won’t happen overnight, but for the moment, he hasn’t made a decision. We’ll see.” This reflects the belief among football circles of Pogba’s capability to return to form and make significant contributions, wherever he lands next.
At this junction of the MLS season, the interplay between potential stars, like Pogba and the sidelined talents such as Holm, showcases LAFC's broader goals and strategic mindset moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly be keeping close tabs on developments as the season continues, creating excitement within the league and beyond.
