LAFC Signs Canadian Midfielder Stephen Eustáquio on Loan with Purchase Option
LAFC has secured the services of midfielder Stephen Eustáquio on loan from FC Porto, with the option to purchase. The Canadian international, aged 29, will be with the team until June 2026 and will occupy an international slot. The club obtained Eustáquio's Discovery Priority from the San Jose Earthquakes in exchange for $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM). LAFC's co-president & general manager, John Thorrington, expressed excitement about adding Eustáquio to the team, highlighting his leadership qualities and experience at the highest level.
Eustáquio has an impressive track record, having scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in 156 matches across all competitions since joining Porto in January 2022. Prior to his time at Porto, he played for various Portuguese clubs and Cruz Azul in LIGA MX. On the international stage, Eustáquio has represented Canada with distinction, scoring four goals in 54 appearances and often captaining the team. With aspirations to be part of Canada's squad for the 2026 World Cup, Eustáquio will join LAFC alongside fellow CanMNT players Mathieu Choinière and Jacob Shaffelburg.
LAFC's upcoming 2026 season, under the guidance of new head coach Marc Dos Santos, kicks off on February 21 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum against Inter Miami CF, the reigning MLS Cup champions led by Lionel Messi. The addition of Eustáquio to the squad is expected to have an immediate positive impact on and off the field, enhancing the team's midfield options and overall competitiveness. LAFC fans can look forward to seeing Eustáquio in action as he aims to contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season.