LAFC secures promising talent Alec Hughes in 2025 MLS SuperDraft

LOS ANGELES -- In a strategic move showcasing their commitment to bolstering their attacking depth, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) acquired forward Alec Hughes with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. The selection came after a trade with Inter Miami, which saw LAFC exchange $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) for 2025 and their natural second-round pick in the 2026 SuperDraft. Hughes, a standout from the University of Massachusetts, brings an impressive collegiate track record to the Black & Gold.

A Collegiate Star with a Record-Breaking Legacy

Hughes’ journey to LAFC is marked by a prolific collegiate career that cemented his reputation as one of the nation’s top young talents. Hailing from Glastonbury, Connecticut, the 6-foot-4 forward leaves UMass as the program’s all-time leading scorer with an astonishing 51 goals across five seasons. This achievement is further underscored by his three consecutive Atlantic 10 Offensive Player of the Year honors, a first in conference history.

Hughes’ ability to deliver in high-pressure moments helped propel the Minutemen to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship in 2024. His 16 goals that season led the Atlantic 10 and ranked third nationally, underscoring his knack for finding the back of the net with consistency. Recognized for his stellar performances, Hughes earned Second Team All-American honors from the United Soccer Coaches after his graduate season, which he extended thanks to an extra year of eligibility granted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Smart Acquisition for LAFC

LAFC’s decision to trade up for Hughes demonstrates their focus on reinforcing their roster with versatile, goal-scoring talent. The trade for the 22nd pick marked a shrewd move for a club that had previously traded away their natural selections in the first three rounds of the draft. Deals involving Maxime Crépeau, Tomás Ángel, and Lewis O’Brien left LAFC without their original picks, necessitating creativity to secure their target in Hughes.

Hughes’ physical presence, combined with his technical prowess and proven scoring ability, makes him an ideal addition to LAFC’s attacking unit. Standing at 6-foot-4, he offers a different dimension to their forward line, with the potential to thrive in both hold-up play and as a clinical finisher in the box. His collegiate accolades suggest he is ready to make an impact at the professional level, and his experience at the Adidas MLS College Showcase in San Diego earlier this month highlighted his readiness to transition to MLS.

Building for the Future

For LAFC, Hughes represents not just a player but a calculated investment in their long-term vision. As the first UMass player ever selected in the MLS SuperDraft, Hughes carries with him the weight of his collegiate success and the promise of untapped potential. His three-time Atlantic 10 Offensive Player of the Year awards, combined with his leadership on and off the field, align with LAFC’s ethos of cultivating talent that can excel in high-pressure environments.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alec to the Black & Gold,” an LAFC spokesperson said. “His scoring record, physicality, and soccer IQ are qualities that make him a fantastic fit for our system. We believe he has the tools to grow and thrive at the next level.”

What Hughes Brings to LAFC

Hughes’ unique skill set addresses several tactical needs for LAFC. His height and physicality add an aerial threat that complements LAFC’s dynamic attacking style, which thrives on creativity and fluidity. Additionally, his ability to score in a variety of situations—from clinical finishes inside the box to long-range strikes—ensures that he can adapt to the demands of MLS.

Moreover, Hughes’ work rate and determination, honed during his record-setting career at UMass, suggest he will bring a relentless edge to LAFC’s offensive strategies. Whether leading the line or contributing off the bench, he offers versatility that could be pivotal as the team looks to navigate the challenges of the 2025 season.

A Key Piece in a Competitive Puzzle

As LAFC prepares for the upcoming campaign, Hughes’ arrival adds depth and competition to a squad aiming to reclaim its spot at the top of the league. The move also reflects LAFC’s broader strategy of blending established stars with emerging talent to maintain their competitive edge.

Hughes joins a roster that has seen significant investment in both seasoned professionals and promising youngsters. As the Black & Gold continue to build for the future, the addition of a player with Hughes’ pedigree reinforces their commitment to excellence and their belief in the value of the MLS SuperDraft as a pathway for talent acquisition.

While the road to professional success is rarely straightforward, Alec Hughes has already proven he has the resilience and talent to meet the challenge. His journey from collegiate standout to MLS rookie marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in his career—and an important one for LAFC as they continue to build a team capable of competing for trophies.

With the 2025 season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Hughes to see how he transitions to the professional game. For now, his selection represents a win for LAFC, a moment of pride for UMass, and the latest step in a promising soccer journey.