It’s in the title, folks. Every week during the MLS season, Backheeled will dive into the biggest Winners and Losers from around the league. This week, LAFC raised their ceiling, a Seattle Sounders’ legend headed into the sunset, Sandro Schwarz had a meltdown, and more.
Winner: LAFC
A 1-0 loss to the Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday night isn't what earned LAFC a spot on this week's 'winners' list. Instead, they qualify thanks to a recent off-field move – the team is going to be without Olivier Giroud for, well, forever following his final appearance for LAFC against the 'Caps.
Olivier Giroud exits his final LAFC match pic.twitter.com/nDcmOKWzRm
— Justin Ruderman (@JustinRuderman_) June 30, 2025
After a massively disappointing year for France’s former line-leader in Los Angeles, the player and club announced a parting of ways on Friday. Giroud is heading back to his home country to play in Ligue 1, according to reports. His exit opens a Designated Player spot for LAFC, where he won’t be missed given his dismal scoring record. In 20 MLS regular season appearances, he managed just three goals and had been relegated to an every-other game starter by Steve Cherundolo earlier this season.
