Kyogo Furuhashi has completed his move to LA Galaxy, ending a disappointing spell at Birmingham City. The Japanese forward struggled to replicate his prolific form in the Championship, managing just three goals in 31 appearances before departing the English club. His new MLS contract runs through the 2030-31 season as he seeks to resurrect his career in American football.
Furuhashi's transfer to Birmingham for £10 million in July 2025 failed to deliver the expected impact. After losing his starting position by mid-January and undergoing shoulder surgery, he fell out of contention for Japan's World Cup squad—a significant setback for the experienced striker. LA Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz expressed optimism about the signing, noting Furuhashi's extensive pedigree across multiple elite competitions and leagues.
From Celtic Success to European Struggles
The contrast between Furuhashi's time at Celtic and his recent form highlights how quickly fortunes can shift in football. During his spell in Scotland, the forward netted 85 goals in 165 appearances, capturing four Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups, and three Scottish League Cups. The 2022-23 season proved particularly prolific—he won the Scottish Player of the Year award while finishing as the league's top goalscorer with 27 league goals.
Before his Birmingham move, Furuhashi spent time with Stade Rennais in Ligue 1, though the French stint proved brief. His earlier achievements also included trophies with Vissel Kobe in Japan's domestic competitions. Former Birmingham forward Clinton Morrison offered insight into the forward's struggles: "At Celtic his movement and the chances were fantastic. He was getting opportunities at Birmingham but rushing at them—that's a player short on confidence. You need more than work rate as a number nine; you need goals."
Fresh Start in MLS
The 28-year-old now faces the challenge of rebuilding his confidence and form in Major League Soccer. He will occupy an international roster slot for LA Galaxy once his P-1 Visa is processed. With the pressure of recent failures behind him, Furuhashi must rediscover the clinical finishing that made him a household name during his Celtic years and restore his status within Japan's national team plans.
