At 38, Hugo Lloris is savoring a new chapter of his career with LAFC as they prepare to face Chelsea in the Club World Cup. For the former France and Tottenham captain, Monday’s fixture in Atlanta is both a professional milestone and a personal journey revisiting a familiar opponent from his Premier League past.
Lloris joined LAFC last year and, after a slow start, has become a cornerstone of the team’s success. His standout performance in the play-in match against Club América, where he made a crucial save in extra time, proved pivotal. Minutes later, Denis Bouanga netted the winner, sealing a 2-1 victory and LAFC’s place in the tournament.
Teammates and coaches alike have praised Lloris not just for his shot-stopping skills, but for his leadership and composure. Defender Ryan Hollingshead noted his uncanny ability to anticipate opponents’ movements and maintain defensive structure through constant communication. Captain Aaron Long highlighted Lloris’ skill with the ball at his feet and his remarkable ability to hold on to difficult shots attributes often underappreciated but vital in tight matches.
Beyond technical talent, Lloris’ humility and emotional intelligence have resonated deeply within the squad. According to LAFC’s head coach, Lloris often speaks when others stay silent, bringing calm and clarity to high-pressure moments. His veteran presence, combined with a willingness to help, has made a meaningful impact in the locker room.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Lloris initially struggled with the league’s physical intensity and extensive travel demands. After conceding 19 goals in his first 11 games, he rebounded impressively, recording five straight clean sheets and helping LAFC to a 10-match unbeaten streak. He ended the season with 12 shutouts, narrowly behind league leader Stefan Frei.
Adapting to MLS also required adjusting to long-distance travel and rapid transitions on the pitch. Lloris acknowledged the inconsistency of early performances, but as the team found rhythm, so did he. Despite the rigors, he embraced the experience, finding joy in LA’s climate, culture, and community spirit.
The southern California lifestyle has reminded Lloris of his hometown of Nice, with its coastal charm and laid-back vibe. His family has settled well, and though he misses loved ones in Europe, he’s found a second home in LAFC’s tight-knit environment. Moments like celebrating victories with his son and sharing post-match joy with the entire club have rekindled his love for the game.
As LAFC heads into their biggest challenge yet, Lloris remains driven by the same passion that defined his storied career. “It doesn’t matter which level you are at,” he said. “You wake up every day for moments like these.”
