Giorgio Chiellini is gearing up to defend the MLS Cup with Los Angeles FC as the final against Columbus Crew fast approaches.
The 39-year-old Italian centre back joined the American outfit in July of last year after his contract with Juventus expired, ending a 17-year spell in Turin. He signed an 18-month contract with LAFC, which draws to a close at the end of this month.
Chiellini played 13 matches in his first season with LAFC, doing well in the regular season but struggling for minutes in the play-offs. He was left on the bench for the MLS Cup final against Philadelphia Union, which dramatically ended 3-3 in regular time and 6-3 on penalties.
LAFC are now gearing up to defend their MLS Cup title, facing Columbus Crew at the Lower.com Field on December 9 at 21:00 UK time. Chiellini started three of their four play-off wins this term and is now expected to start in the final.
The Italian veteran is the vice-captain of the MLS side and has enjoyed his football in America, with some fans calling for him to receive a new short-term deal.
Chiellini’s time in the MLS has been far more successful than his compatriots Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne, whose times at Toronto FC have become increasingly difficult.