Over seven seasons with LAFC, Vela played 189 matches, scoring 93 goals and providing 53 assists
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With LAFC he won one MLS Cup and the U.S. Open CupEarned 72 caps with the Mexican national team (19 goals)Represented Mexico in two FIFA World Cups (2010 and 2018)Get the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?
Carlos Vela, one of Mexico’s most talented footballers, has officially retired from professional soccer. After spending six months without a club and away from the field, the 36-year-old Cancún native decided to step away from playing but will continue his involvement with Los Angeles FC as the team’s first-ever ambassador.
“Throughout my career, I have experienced very special moments, but the time has come to officially retire from professional soccer. There are not enough words to express my gratitude to my family, all the clubs that gave me a chance, and the fans for their support and affection. Thank you, Carlos. It has been an honor and a privilege to share my career with all of you," Vela wrote on social media.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Vela, who became LAFC’s first-ever signing in 2017 after arriving from Spain’s Real Sociedad, quickly established himself as the face of the franchise. He made his debut in March 2018 during the club’s inaugural season in a thrilling clash against LA Galaxy — a match that marked the beginning of the now-iconic “El Tráfico” rivalry.
Over seven seasons with LAFC, Vela played 189 matches, scoring 93 goals and providing 53 assists — numbers that underscore his role as a central figure in the club’s rise to prominence. During his time with the , he helped the team capture two Supporters’ Shields (2019, 2022), one MLS Cup (2022), and the U.S. Open Cup (2024). On the international stage, he also led LAFC to two CONCACAF Champions League final appearances, finishing as runner-up in both 2020 and 2023.
His most remarkable season came in 2019, when he was named MLS Most Valuable Player and won the Golden Boot after setting a league record with 34 goals in a single regular season.
Though his legacy with LAFC is unquestionable, the final chapter of his playing career was quieter. His contract expired in December 2023, and after a nine-month hiatus, he rejoined the club briefly in September 2024. While he was part of the roster that lifted the U.S. Open Cup that year, he didn’t feature in the tournament. His final appearance came on October 27, 2024, entering as a late substitute in a match against Vancouver Whitecaps.
Getty Images SportWHAT GRIEZMANN, CHICHARITO AND OCHOA SAID
Following the announcement of his retirement, Vela received an outpouring of support from fellow football stars with whom he shared the locker room throughout his career. French international Antoine Griezmann commented on Vela’s post, saying “I love you very much, Carlitos, thank you for your friendship."
Mexico’s national team goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa also shared his thoughts, writing, “An honor to share the field with you, always a legend! You’ll be missed on the pitch."
Former LA Galaxy striker Javier “Chicharito” Hernández added a heartfelt message: “A true pleasure to have shared so many moments with you. I love you."
Other players who reacted to Vela’s post included Cristian Arango, Josef Martínez, Cristian Tello, Héctor Herrera, and Asier Illarramendi, among others – highlighting the deep respect and affection Vela earned throughout his career across multiple leagues and countries.
AFPDID YOU KNOW?
Before his time in MLS, Vela’s career began in Mexico’s youth ranks with Club Deportivo Guadalajara, although he never played for their senior team. In 2005, he signed with Arsenal in the English Premier League and had loan spells with Salamanca in Spain’s Segunda División, Osasuna in La Liga, and West Bromwich Albion in England before settling at Real Sociedad. There, he earned recognition as the club’s best player during the 2011-12 and 2013-14 seasons.
On the international stage, Vela was a standout with Mexico’s U-17 squad, winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2005 and securing the tournament’s Golden Boot with five goals. This early success helped launch his European career. He went on to represent Mexico in two FIFA World Cups (2010 and 2018) and won two Gold Cup titles, earning 72 caps and scoring 19 goals for over an 11-year international career.