LAFC has named Fabian Sandoval head coach of LAFC2, the club’s MLS NEXT Pro Team.
Fabian brings quality experience to LAFC2 and a deep understanding of the club’s standards and development pathway. After progressing through our Academy environment and serving as an assistant coach the past two seasons, he has delivered success at multiple levels and played an important role in advancing the club’s vision for LAFC2,” LAFC Assistant General Manager Jordan Harvey said. “Fabian has a strong knowledge of the game and a proven ability to support both individual growth and team development. He’s earned the trust of our environment, and we’re confident our young players will benefit from his leadership as they take the next steps in their careers.
Sandoval began coaching with LAFC2 as an assistant coach at the beginning of the 2024 season, bringing with him over 15 years of coaching experience. He holds a USSF ‘A’ License and has a background in scouting and game analysis. Sandoval also brings playing experience at the collegiate level with CSU Bakersfield and was a professional player in the USL with Miami FC and the San Diego Gauchos.
Sandoval first joined LAFC in 2017, helping set the foundation that launched the LAFC Academy by serving as assistant coach for the club’s first U-12 team. Sandoval then led the U-17 team while continuing his role of identifying potential Academy prospects. Sandoval also helped lead the LAFC Academy U-13 team to the 2018 Concacaf Champions League title and more recently guided the team to a third-place finish in the 2023 Generation Adidas Cup.
Sandoval’s in-depth knowledge of the Southern California youth soccer landscape has played a key role in the club’s efforts to identify and develop talent for the LAFC Academy. Sandoval was instrumental in the development of Academy graduates such as Erik Dueñas, Christian Torres, Tony Leone, and Nathan Ordaz.
