Canadian international midfielder Mathieu Choinière is on the verge of making a return to Major League Soccer, with reports indicating that LAFC is close to completing a deal for the player. This anticipated transfer signifies his comeback to North American club football after a year spent in Switzerland. The move is particularly notable given LAFC's ownership stake in Choinière's current club, Grasshopper FC, potentially streamlining the process. His return to MLS is expected to strengthen LAFC's midfield and provide him with a platform to secure a consistent role with the Canadian national team ahead of major international competitions.
Mathieu Choinière, a product of CF Montréal's esteemed youth academy, previously spent six and a half seasons with the club before venturing to Europe. During his tenure at Montréal, he accumulated 120 appearances, tallying 11 goals and three assists, and earned MLS All-Star recognition in both 2023 and 2024. Last August, he transferred to Grasshopper FC in the Swiss Super League for a reported fee of $1 million. Despite featuring in 17 matches for the Swiss side, the opportunity to return to MLS and join a competitive team like LAFC appears to be the next step in his career.
The impending transfer aligns with the opening of the MLS summer transfer window on July 24. For Choinière, this move presents a crucial chance to cement his place within Jesse Marsch's plans for the Canadian national team, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. He has already earned 17 caps for Canada, including four appearances and three starts in this summer's Gold Cup, highlighting his importance to the squad. The availability of the second midfield spot alongside Stephen Eustáquio offers a clear pathway for Choinière to gain significant playing time and further his international ambitions.
LAFC, currently sitting in sixth place in the MLS Western Conference with a record of 9-5-5 as of Wednesday night's match against Minnesota United, stands to benefit from Choinière's arrival. The club has several games in hand due to its participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, and the addition of a seasoned midfielder like Choinière could provide a significant boost to their campaign as they push for a higher standing in the league.
This strategic acquisition underscores LAFC's commitment to strengthening its roster with experienced and internationally recognized talent. Choinière's familiarity with MLS, combined with his recent experience in European football, positions him as a valuable asset for the black and gold. His reintegration into the league is poised to be a key storyline as the season progresses, with fans eager to see the impact he will have on the pitch for his new club.
