Huge blow for LAFC as Diego Palacios departs the club for this Brazilian side
Diego Palacios, a cornerstone of LAFC’s defense, has decided to part ways with the club, marking a significant loss for the team’s backline.
The Ecuadorian full-back, known for his tenacity and skill, has chosen to continue his career journey with the esteemed Brazilian outfit, Corinthians.
Joining LAFC in August 2019 from Ecuadorian club Aucas, Palacios quickly established himself as a linchpin in the team’s defensive setup.
Over the span of four and a-half seasons with the Black and Gold, his unwavering commitment was evident in his 132 appearances at BMO Stadium.
Additionally, his versatility allowed him to contribute offensively, chipping in with one goal and assisting his teammates on 13 occasions.
Palacios’ impact wasn’t limited to his individual performances. He played an instrumental role in securing three major titles for LAFC, including the club’s maiden trophy, the 2019 Supporters’ Shield.
His contributions further extended to the 2022 Supporters’ Shield and the 2022 MLS Cup victories, both of which solidified LAFC’s status as a force to be reckoned with in Major League Soccer.
On the international front, Palacios proudly represented Ecuador, amassing 12 caps that featured critical matches in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers of 2022.
As LAFC looks ahead, the departure of Palacios leaves a void that won’t be easily filled. His consistent presence, marked by 33 starts in the 2023 MLS regular season, played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive solidity.
Remarkably, under his watchful eye, LAFC boasted one of the league’s most formidable defenses, conceding just 39 goals throughout the campaign.
Furthermore, Palacios’ leadership and experience were evident in the postseason. He was an ever-present figure in the LAFC’s playoff journey, marshaling the defense against top-tier opposition like the Vancouver Whitecaps, Seattle Sounders, and Columbus Crew in the MLS Cup.
While LAFC had expressed a desire to retain Palacios following their 2023 MLS Cup endeavors, his move to Corinthians has been finalized.
With his departure, the club’s attention now shifts to contract negotiations with other key figures.
The defensive restructuring continues, with seasoned options like Ryan Hollingshead and Sergi Palencia potentially stepping up to fill the void.
In conclusion, Diego Palacios’ decision to depart LAFC for Corinthians represents a significant shift in the landscape of Major League Soccer.
As the dust settles, both clubs will be looking ahead, eager to embark on new chapters filled with challenges and opportunities.
