Denis Bouanga

Player Information

Denis Athanase Bouanga (born 11 November 1994) is a professional footballer who plays as a winger and forward for Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC. Born in France, he plays for the Gabon national team. Bouanga began his career in France, making 136 Ligue 1 appearances for Lorient, Nîmes and Saint-Étienne and scoring 35 goals. In 2022, he signed for Los Angeles FC for a $5 million fee. In 2022, he helped the team win the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup, while in 2023 he won the MLS Golden Boot. He is regarded as one of the greatest LAFC players of all time.
Full Name :
Denis Athanase Bouanga
Birthdate :
11 November 1994
Birthplace :
Le Mans, France
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
180
Nationality :
French
Career Started :
2013
Notable Achievements :
Helped LAFC win Supporters' Shield (2022), Helped LAFC win MLS Cup (2022), MLS Golden Boot (2023)
Current Team :
Los Angeles FC
Previous Teams :
AS Mulsanne-Téloché (From 2013, To 2014), Lorient B (From 2014, To 2015), Lorient (From 2014, To 2018), Strasbourg (From 2016, To 2016), Tours (From 2016, To 2017), Nîmes (From 2018, To 2019), Saint-Étienne (From 2019, To 2022)
Active Status :
From - 2013, To - Present

Biography

Denis Bouanga is a Gabonese-French MLS player who joined Los Angeles FC in 2022 after a successful stint at Saint-Étienne. Known for his scoring skill, he achieved notable milestones, including a match-winning goal in the 95th minute against Portland Timbers and multiple hat tricks. Bouanga’s worth is estimated at $5 million, reflecting lucrative contracts and performance bonuses. His commitment to family and Gabonese heritage enriches his personal and professional life, highlighting the depth of his experience. Further insights await.

Early Life

Denis Bouanga began his life in a family with a rich cultural background, as he has a Gabonese father and a French mother. His early expedition in football started at Stade Olympique du Maine, where he developed his skills before moving on to Le Mans FC.

Unfortunately, after two years, he was released from Le Mans, but this setback did not deter him. In 2013, he initiated his senior career with Mulsanne, where he displayed his talent by becoming the top scorer in his league with an impressive 26 goals in the 2013–14 season.

Furthermore, it is interesting to note that Denis has a brother, Didier, who also pursued a career in professional football, emphasizing a strong family connection to the sport.

Family Life

Denis Bouanga places great importance on family, skillfully balancing his professional football career with his role as a father. His decision to commit to Lorient in 2017 was particularly influenced by the anticipation of becoming a parent.

He has a brother named Didier, who is also making his mark in professional football.

As well as his family responsibilities, Bouanga actively engages in community and cultural activities that celebrate his Gabonese heritage, highlighting his strong ties to his family’s roots.

Career

Denis Bouanga launched his MLS career with Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in August 2022, joining from Saint-Étienne for a transfer fee of $5 million.

He made an immediate impact, scoring a dramatic match-winning goal in the 95th minute against the Portland Timbers on October 2, 2022, which played a crucial role in LAFC clinching the Supporters Shield.

In 2023, Bouanga displayed his scoring talent by netting hat tricks against both Austin FC on April 8 and Alajuelense in the CONCACAF Champions League opener on March 10.

His outstanding performances throughout the season culminated in winning the MLS Golden Boot, recognizing him as the league’s top scorer, and earning him a place in the MLS Best XI presented by Continental Tire for both 2023 and 2024.

Net Worth

As of October 2023, Denis Bouanga’s estimated net worth is approximately $5 million, primarily from his professional football career and endorsements.

His transfer to Los Angeles FC was for $5 million, and he has earned notable performance bonuses from accolades such as the 2023 MLS Golden Boot.

Throughout his career, Bouanga has drawn salaries including $1.5 million during his time with Saint-Étienne, $2 million with Nîmes, and $3 million with LAFC in his initial year.

His lucrative contract with Los Angeles FC, along with being named to the MLS Best XI, further improves his financial standing.

Moreover, his dual heritage and community involvement may create opportunities for increased income through ambassador roles and promotional activities.