Key Takeaways
- Los Angeles FC has acquired Canadian winger Jacob Shaffelburg from Nashville for $1 million in General Allocation Money
- Shaffelburg is a 26-year-old versatile and attack-minded player with incredible pace and intensity
- He has made 128 MLS appearances, scoring 14 goals and adding 11 assists, and has been capped 31 times by Canada
- Shaffelburg is expected to bring a strong work ethic and team-first mindset to LAFC
- He has ambitions to represent Canada in the World Cup and is entering an important year in his career
Introduction to Jacob Shaffelburg
The "Maritime Messi" is making his way to Hollywood, as Los Angeles FC announced the acquisition of Canadian winger Jacob Shaffelburg from Nashville on Monday. The 26-year-old winger is set to join the LAFC family in exchange for $1 million in General Allocation Money. Shaffelburg spent the past four seasons in Tennessee, making 23 league appearances in 2025, scoring four goals, and adding a pair of assists. This move marks a new chapter in Shaffelburg’s career, and LAFC general manager John Thorrington is excited to have him on board. Thorrington praised Shaffelburg’s versatility, pace, and intensity, as well as his proven track record at the international level with Canada.
Shaffelburg’s Background and Career
Shaffelburg’s journey to LAFC began in Kentville, Nova Scotia, where he grew up and developed a passion for soccer. He signed his first professional contract in 2018 with Toronto FC and made his Major League Soccer debut in 2019. After 46 league appearances for the Reds, Shaffelburg was sent on loan to Nashville in the summer of 2022, and the loan was made permanent that offseason. In total, Shaffelburg has made 128 MLS appearances across eight seasons with TFC and Nashville, scoring 14 goals and adding 11 assists. His experience and skillset will undoubtedly be an asset to LAFC, and Thorrington is looking forward to seeing him contribute to the team’s success.
International Experience and Ambitions
Shaffelburg has also made a name for himself on the international stage, earning 31 caps for Canada since his senior debut in 2020. He scored his first international goal during the 2023 Gold Cup and has gone on to score five goals in a Canada shirt. As he enters an important year in his career, Shaffelburg has his sights set on representing Canada in the World Cup. Thorrington noted that Shaffelburg’s ambitions and work ethic will be a great fit for LAFC, and the team is excited to support him in his pursuit of international success. With his pace, intensity, and team-first mindset, Shaffelburg is poised to make a significant impact on the pitch and help LAFC achieve its goals.
The Future of LAFC with Shaffelburg
The acquisition of Shaffelburg is a significant move for LAFC, as the team looks to build on its strong core and make a push for success in the upcoming season. Thorrington’s statement emphasized the importance of Shaffelburg’s character, professionalism, and humility, highlighting the value he will bring to the team both on and off the pitch. As Shaffelburg joins the LAFC family, he will be welcomed by his new teammates and the team’s loyal fan base. With his impressive skills and experience, Shaffelburg is expected to make a seamless transition to his new team and contribute to LAFC’s success in the years to come. As the "Maritime Messi" takes his talents to Hollywood, fans can expect exciting things from this talented young player.
