Bayern Munich agree partnership with MLS side Los Angeles FC
Bayern Munich and MLS champions Los Angeles FC have agreed a partnership with the aim of developing talented young players.
The two clubs have set up a joint venture, called Red&Gold Football, which is based in Munich, to facilitate their activities.
"The cooperation with Los Angeles Football Club gives us the chance to develop talent internationally within our own system," said Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. "Our campus, which remains at the heart of FC Bayern's youth development, will also benefit. In the future, we will be able to offer our young players a career path that is even better tailored to them and thus a better transition into our professional teams and professional soccer. This makes FC Bayern more attractive as a youth development club."
Watch: Justin Che: The Bundesliga's next FC Dallas graduate
Bayern struck a similar agreement in 2018 with another MLS side, FC Dallas. The emergence of Chris Richards was a direct result of that partnership and the defender, now at English side Crystal Palace following a loan spell at Hoffenheim, is now a full USA international. Justin Che, also currently at Hoffenheim, is likewise a Dallas academy graduate to have benefited from the connection with Bayern.
LAFC, founded in 2014, won the MLS championship for the first time in 2022. They have several household names among the squad, including star striker Carlos Vela, as well as Giorgio Chiellini. The team is coached by Steven Cherundolo, who made 302 Bundesliga appearances for Hannover between 1998 and 2014, and remains part of the Bundesliga Legends network.
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