Carlos Vela, one of the most talented Mexican soccer players of his generation, officially announced his retirement from professional soccer. At the age of 36 and after several months of inactivity, the Cancun-born striker decided to put an end to his career on the field, although he will continue to be linked to soccer as the first official ambassador of Los Angeles FC, the club where he reached the pinnacle of the MLS.
The announcement was accompanied by an emotional celebration called “Carlos Vela Night,” which will take place on September 21 at LAFC’s match against Real Salt Lake. This initiative seeks to pay tribute to the legacy of LAFC’s first great idol.
Last years at LAFC
After his contract with LAFC expired in December 2023, Carlos Vela was without a team for nine months.
He briefly returned to the club in September 2024 and although he did not participate in the U.S. Open Cup, he celebrated the title with the team.
His last game was played on October 27, 2024, when he came on as an 86th-minute substitute against Vancouver Whitecaps at BMO Stadium.
“The connection with the fans was always special,” said Vela during one of his last conferences.
I gave my all every time I had the chance to defend this jersey
Carlos Vela
During his seven seasons with LAFC, Carlos Vela won the MLS Cup (2022), two Supporters’ Shields (2019 and 2022) and the U.S. Open Cup (2024), in addition to being runner-up in the Concachampions in 2020 and 2023.
Individually, he was MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Golden Boot in 2019, a year in which he scored 34 goals, a still-standing record in a regular season.
Europe and El Tri
Buzzy
Carlos Vela began his professional career in Europe after excelling at the 2005 U-17 World Cup, where he was champion and top scorer.
He signed with Arsenal and had spells with Salamanca, Osasuna, West Bromwich and Real Sociedad, where he experienced his best years in European soccer.
With the Mexican National Team, he played in the World Cups of South Africa 2010 and Russia 2018, in addition to winning two Gold Cups. He played 72 games and scored 19 goals with El Tri.
Carlos Vela’s legacy extends beyond goals.
He was a pioneer in the consolidation of LAFC as a power in MLS and a reference for young Hispanic soccer players in the United States.
His new role as an ambassador will allow him to continue to inspire from off the field.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
