The legend of the Los Angeles FC, Carlos Vela, who set the record in a single MLS season with 34 goals in 2019, announced his retirement on Tuesday.
Vela was the MLS MVP in 2019 and helped Los Angeles FC under the MLS 2022 Cup. He is the leader of all time in the franchise in goals (78), the decisive passes (59) and the matches (152).
“Throughout my career, I lived very special moments, but the time has come to retire from Professional (Soccer),” wrote Vela on Instagram.
“There are not enough words to express the gratitude I have for my family, all the clubs that have given me the opportunity, and fans for their support and affection. It was an honor and a privilege to share my career with you all.”
Vela was quadruple All-Star, triple MLS Best XI and a double winner of Shield for supporters for Lafc, won the best regular season record in 2019 and 2022.
“Helping to build the LAFC and winning trophies for the club is a highlight of my career,” said Vela in a press release. “This club means so much for me and my family, and I am proud of everything we have accomplished with the big fans of Los Angeles. I am delighted to start this next chapter of my trip here at”
Vela was the first player signed by Lafc before his 2018 expansion season. On Tuesday, the team appointed Vela club ambassador while greeting her career.
“From the start, Carlos was more than a simple player – he was the heartbeat, the captain and the face of Lafc,” general manager John Thorrington said in a press release. “Carlos arrived in Los Angeles with a shared vision of building something really special, and he held this promise from all points of view. Unforgettable objectives to historical victories, Carlos has helped to make Lafc what he is today.
“Although his LAFC field stay is finished, we are delighted to announce that Carlos will continue to be part of the Black & Gold as the club’s official ambassador. In this new role, he will help us develop the LaFC brand, strengthen our links with supporters and continue to inspire the next generation of players.”
VELA’s last appearance for Lafc occurred on October 27, 2024 when he played four minutes as a reserve at the end of a victory over the Whitecaps of Vancouver in a 2-1 victory in the first round of the MLS qualifiers.
Vela, 36, flirted while continuing to play this season, but the two parties did not come in financial terms.
Vela also played for the Mexican national team and played in the 2010 and 2018 World Cups. He scored 19 goals in 72 games for Mexico, including one during the 2018 World Cup.
Vela’s career also included international stops with Arsenal of the English Premier League and Real Sociedad of La Liga in Mexico.
– field level media