Denis Bouanga : The Explosive Evolution of LAFC’s free-scoring Leagues Cup star

From his early days in the youth teams of Le Mans to his current explosive form in Major League Soccer with Los Angeles FC (LAFC), Denis Bouanga has journeyed near and far to where he is today. With a flair for goal-scoring and a finesse in finishing that harks back to his idol Ronaldo Nazário, Bouanga's evolution from his time at lower league French side Tours FC to his dominance on American soil is a testament to his determination and adaptability.

Bouanga's emergence onto the soccer scene can be traced back to his youth, where his family's influence and his own innate passion for the sport paved the way for his future success. "In football, it was R9 (Ronaldo Nazário)," Bouanga admits, referring to his idol. "The way he accelerated, the way he dribbled. That’s what he’s famous for — also the quality of his finishing." But it wasn't just the legends of the game that inspired him. "With my family, it was my father, who was a soccer player, and my brother Didier," he shares. "My dad pushed us to succeed because football is his passion, too."

From Tours to Los Angeles via Saint-Étienne

Bouanga's journey took a significant turn during his time with Tours FC during the 2016-2017 season. His qualities as a dynamic winger, blessed with the ability to create opportunities and a calm demeanour in front of goal, caught the attention of fans and experts alike. He returned to his parent club Lorient and spent a season at Nîmes before he joined Saint-Étienne in Ligue 1. He played 110 matches in France’s top tier, scoring 28 goals and providing 16 assists. The experience proved invaluable as he ventured across the Atlantic to the bustling city of Los Angeles, aiming for even greater achievements in a rapidly expanding MLS in the summer of 2022.

In the heart of LAFC's lineup, Bouanga's impact has been undeniable. With a record of 12 goals and 3 assists in 21 MLS matches, coupled with 7 goals and 3 assists in 8 CONCACAF Champions League games, the Gabonese forward has a loving life in the States. His prowess reached new heights in the Leagues Cup, where he showcased his talents with remarkable consistency. After netting a hat-trick and an assist against Juarez last week in their resounding 7-1 victory, the Gabon international replicated another stellar performance against Real Salt Lake.

Breaking the deadlock in the 52nd minute with a graceful combination of speed and skill, he rapidly secured his second goal only four minutes later. But his impact didn't stop at goals – his selflessness and playmaking skills came to the fore when he provided the assist for Nathan Ordaz's goal just six minutes after his own brace. The final scoreline of 4-0 in LAFC's favour was a testament to Bouanga's instrumental role.

Transitioning into an all-round player

Reflecting on his current form and his evolution, Bouanga's journey from a youth eager to dribble past opponents to a multifaceted player capable of slotting into various positions is evident. "I wanted to be a striker when I was younger, but I was a bit too small and skinny," he reminisces. "Now, I can play every position. I’ve played right back, on the wing, as the No. 10 and as a No. 9. At my age and with my experience, I feel like I can play any position."

Bouanga's choice to join LAFC was undoubtedly a pivotal moment. "The club and the coach really wanted me. I wanted to go somewhere where I really felt wanted," he reveals. This sense of belonging has fueled his drive to excel on the field. "Every time I step on the pitch, my goal is to score, and when you score once, twice, or three times like last weekend, it gives you the confidence to score again the next week."

LAFC face Monterrey in the quarter-final stage of Leagues Cup 2023, hoping to secure a place in the semi-final. The MLS and LIGA MX side face off at the iconic Rosebowl Stadium in Pasadena, California at 22:30 ET (7:30pm PT & 8:30pm in Mexico).