What happened: The Ukrainian defender returns to his home country during the 2026 MLS regular season. Smoliakov joined LAFC in February 2025 on a U-22 contract.
Why it matters: Smoliakov's limited 2026 role makes this a depth move rather than a change to LAFC's regular starting group. It is LAFC's third outgoing player move in July, after Matt Evans' loan and Amin Boudri's transfer.
By the numbers: Smoliakov made five MLS appearances and played 174 minutes for LAFC in 2026.
What to watch: Smoliakov's registration and first appearance for FC Kharkiv are the next milestones.