Club América defender Israel Reyes has welcomed the potential arrival of Denis Bouanga, the LAFC forward linked with a move to Liga MX. Reyes praised Bouanga as a “great player” and emphasized that the club would make him feel at home. Despite LAFC‘s resistance to the transfer, the ongoing rumors about Bouanga’s future continue to captivate both MLS and Liga MX fans.
Speculation surrounding Denis Bouanga’s potential transfer to Club América has been gaining momentum, with reports indicating that the Liga MX giants are preparing to submit an official offer for the LAFC forward. Despite LAFC’s reluctance to part with their star player, Club América has been making waves with their interest, and now, the club’s defenders are publicly endorsing the idea of Bouanga joining their ranks.
Israel Reyes on Bouanga: “A Great Player Who Would Fit Right In”
In a recent press conference, Israel Reyes, a key figure in the Club América defense, voiced his approval of Bouanga’s potential arrival. Reyes praised the Gabonese international, acknowledging his quality and skill on the field.
“He’s a great player. We’ve faced him a couple of times, given our positions on the pitch,” Reyes said. “Any player who wants to contribute and do things the right way is welcome here. If he comes, we’ll make him feel at home like anyone else, help him understand what this club stands for, and let him know we’re going all in.”
Reyes’ comments align with the club’s philosophy of fostering an environment where any new addition, especially one of Bouanga’s caliber, would be welcomed and integrated into the team’s culture. It also signals the importance Club América places on reinforcing their squad with top talent as they look to reclaim the Liga MX throne.
Bouanga’s Ambiguity Fuels Speculation
Bouanga, meanwhile, has not been shy in fueling the rumors surrounding his future. During the MLS All-Star Game media day, the forward dropped a hint that could suggest a potential move to Club América. When asked about possible changes to the format, Bouanga responded, “If I’m here,” before quickly clarifying that his focus remains on his current commitments with LAFC.
A week prior, Bouanga was similarly non-committal, stating, “Whatever has to happen regarding my future will happen, that’s what I think. For now, I’m just trying to stay focused here because I have a match every four days.” His reluctance to deny the rumors only added to the speculation, with many in both MLS and Liga MX wondering if a move could be on the horizon.
Club América’s Mixed Start to the Apertura 2025
Despite the transfer talk, Israel Reyes also addressed the current atmosphere surrounding Club América, acknowledging that the team’s results have been a bit underwhelming. The team has only accumulated four points from their first two matches in the Apertura 2025, with a win and a draw.
Reyes admitted that the pressure of high expectations at Club América—a club historically known for its dominance—can be a burden. “This club is always expected to win – that’s the reality of América,” Reyes explained. “If you win three straight titles, the next tournament has to be about winning again. When you get used to winning so much and come off two great years where we barely lost, it weighs on you. We know this current situation doesn’t define us – we’re in a transition phase.”
He also pointed out that the team has been missing key players, and that this has had a tangible effect on their results. “We’ve had key players missing, and that has taken a toll,” Reyes added, acknowledging that the team is still finding its rhythm despite the setbacks.
Looking Ahead: Club América Faces Necaxa Next
As Club América prepares for their upcoming Apertura 2025 fixture against Necaxa, Reyes and his teammates are hoping to get back on track. The match, set for Saturday, will be crucial as André Jardine’s side looks to bounce back from their recent struggles and build momentum for the rest of the season.
With the transfer rumors surrounding Bouanga continuing to swirl, it remains to be seen whether Club América can secure the LAFC forward’s signature. But if Bouanga does make the move, it’s clear that Reyes and the rest of the squad are ready to welcome him with open arms.
