Carlos Vela has officially announced his retirement from professional soccer, concluding a stellar career that included stints at Arsenal and Real Sociedad, and his pivotal role as a playmaker for LAFC in Major League Soccer. Vela became a key figure for Mexico during the 2010 and 2018 World Cups, and he has earned a reputation as one of the most accomplished players in MLS history. Joining LAFC as their first designated player at the club’s inception in 2018, he has garnered numerous team and individual honors, including leading LAFC to the MLS Cup in 2022, as well as Supporters’ Shields in 2019 and 2022, and the 2024 US Open Cup.
In a statement, Vela reflected on his journey in soccer. The Cancun native was named 2019 MLS MVP, breaking league records with a remarkable 34 goals and a total of 49 goal contributions in a single season. He retires holding several all-time LAFC records as well, with 152 games played, 11,194 minutes on the field, 78 goals, and 59 assists.
At 36 years old, Vela will transition into an ambassadorial role with LAFC after his last short-term contract with the team ended in October 2024. John Sorrington, co-president and general manager, acknowledged Vela’s significance, stating, "From the start, Carlos was more than just a player. He was the face of Heartbeat, Captain and LAFC."
For Mexico’s national team, Vela scored 19 goals in 72 appearances, participating prominently in the 2010 and 2018 World Cups and contributing to two Concacaf Gold Cup victories. Before his time at LAFC, he played for Real Sociedad in La Liga from 2011 to 2017, making over 200 appearances and netting 72 goals. Vela’s career began with Arsenal after coming through the youth ranks of Liga MX’s Chivas Guadalajara, and he spent time on loan at Salamanca, Osasuna, and West Bromwich Albion.
Fan Take: Vela’s retirement marks the end of an era for not just LAFC but also for Mexican soccer, as his contributions have significantly raised the profile of MLS. His legacy will inspire future generations of players in North America, showing that talent and hard work can lead to success on the global stage.
