In a bold move that is sure to shake up the Major League Soccer (MLS) scene, LAFC has secured the services of midfielder Lewis O’Brien on loan from Nottingham Forest, with an option to make the deal permanent. The 25-year-old English footballer will be joining the LAFC squad on an initial loan until December, taking up one of their valuable international roster slots.
This is not O’Brien’s first foray into the MLS, as he had a brief stint with D.C. United during the 2022-23 season. LAFC was able to acquire the right of first refusal for O’Brien from D.C. United in exchange for $50,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM), solidifying their position in the negotiations.
O’Brien’s playing time at Nottingham Forest was gradually diminishing, leading to a failed loan move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers in January 2023 due to a paperwork issue. However, he bounced back by joining D.C. United on loan in March, where he made 17 appearances and contributed with a goal and an assist.
After his successful loan spell at D.C. United, O’Brien spent the last season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough. Despite suffering from a fractured tibia and ankle damage in September, he managed to make 25 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his resilience and determination on the pitch.
LAFC’s co-President and general manager, John Thorrington, expressed his excitement over O’Brien’s arrival in Los Angeles, praising the midfielder’s dynamic and versatile playing style. Thorrington believes that O’Brien’s qualities will complement an already strong midfield group and will be instrumental in LAFC’s quest for silverware. He also extended his gratitude to Nottingham Forest and O’Brien’s representative, Kevin Sharp, for their professionalism throughout the transfer process.
As LAFC currently sits in second place in the MLS standings, just two points behind rivals LA Galaxy with two games in hand, the addition of Lewis O’Brien could prove to be the missing piece in their pursuit of glory on the soccer field. The fans eagerly await O’Brien’s debut in the black and gold jersey, hoping to witness his magic on the pitch as he strives to propel LAFC to new heights in the MLS.
