Laurent Ciman developed into a fan favorite during his time with LAFC.
By Ivan Yeo
One of he most beloved players is headed for a quick, yet unexpected exit.
On Tuesday, it was announced that LAFC center back Laurent Ciman, the anchor of the team’s defense and its captain, will be transferred to Ligue 1 side Dijon FCO. Ciman is expected to join the French club before the European transfer window closes at the end of the month.
“Laurent has been a big part of LAFC’s history. He will be forever remembered as the Club’s first captain and the first goal scorer at Banc of California Stadium,” EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager John Thorrington said. “These decisions are never easy but we succeeded in finding the right deal for both the Club and Laurent. We thank Laurent for his commitment and contribution to LAFC and wish him, his wife Diana, and their family nothing but the best in the next phase of his career.”
Ciman has started all of LAFC’s 22 matches this season and provided one of the more dramatic moments for the upstart franchise, scoring the first ever goal at Banc of California Stadium in stoppage time to give LAFC a 1-0 win over the Seattle Sounders in its first ever match at the new stadium back on April 29. Ciman tallied three goals and was recently a starter in the 2018 MLS All-Star Game at Atlanta.
“Laurent has played an important role getting us started in our first season at LAFC,” said LAFC Head Coach Bob Bradley. “He has given a lot to this Club and we will always appreciate his passion, leadership and strong play.”
It is not known what caused Ciman’s sudden departure from LAFC, though numerous media outlets say the reason may have centered around Ciman’s impending free agency. Ciman’s contract was set to expire after the season and he desired an extension. Ciman did not suit up for the El Traffico matchup against the Galaxy this past Friday.
A 2018 MLS All-Star for LAFC, Ciman played four seasons in MLS and was named the 2015 MLS Defender of the Year, earned MLS Best XI honors in 2015, and was selected to a total of three MLS All-Star Games. He appeared in 107 matches (all starts), registering five goals and three assists in 9,569 minutes. Ciman was acquired by LAFC in a trade back in December during the expansion draft, as LAFC sent two of its picks, Jukka Raitala and Raheem Edwards to Montreal for Ciman.
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