Carlos Vela Announces Retirement from Professional Football
@MLS
Carlos Vela, one of the most skilled and stylish players to grace Major League Soccer and a symbol of LAFC’s rise, officially announced his retirement from professional football on May 27, 2025. The 36-year-old leaves the game as a legend of both Mexican football and MLS, capping off an illustrious 19-year career with a legacy that extends well beyond the pitch.
Early Beginnings: From Cancún to Europe
Born in Cancún, Mexico, Vela's journey began in earnest when he led Mexico to the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Cup title, earning the tournament’s Golden Boot. That performance catapulted him into European football, signing with English giants Arsenal at just 16 years old.
Due to UK work permit issues, Vela’s early career involved a series of loans across Spain with Salamanca, Osasuna, and eventually Real Sociedad. It was at Sociedad where he truly found his rhythm, becoming one of La Liga’s most consistent attackers.
Key Stats at Real Sociedad:
250 appearances
73 goals
Qualified for UEFA Champions League in 2013
LAFC Era: A New Star in Los Angeles
Vela made headlines in 2018 as LAFC’s first designated player. Not only was he the club's first marquee signing, he quickly became the face of the franchise. Known for his finesse, vision, and lethal left foot, Vela transformed LAFC from an expansion team into a powerhouse.
His 2019 season remains one of the greatest in MLS history:
34 goals (MLS single-season record)
15 assists
MLS MVP Award
During his LAFC tenure, he helped the club win:
2x Supporters' Shields (2019, 2022)
1x MLS Cup (2022)
1x Western Conference Championship (2022)
Career MLS Stats:
152 games
78 goals
59 assists
Vela also earned praise for representing the Mexican and Latino communities in Los Angeles, using his platform to grow the sport and inspire a generation of local talent.
International Career with El Tri
Vela had a complex but impactful international career. He earned 72 caps and scored 19 goals for the Mexican national team. He played in:
2010 FIFA World Cup
2018 FIFA World Cup
2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup champion
His decisions to take breaks from international duty were controversial at times, but he always delivered when called upon, particularly during World Cup competition.
@MLS
Retirement Announcement and Legacy
Vela shared the news of his retirement on Instagram with a heartfelt message thanking fans, teammates, and family. “The time has come to say goodbye to the game I love,” he wrote. “It’s been a beautiful journey full of unforgettable memories.”
Shortly after, LAFC announced that Vela would remain with the club as its first-ever club ambassador — a role that will see him involved in community outreach, youth development, and international relations.
To honor his legacy, LAFC will host a tribute event titled "Noche de Carlos Vela" on September 21, 2025, when the club hosts Real Salt Lake at BMO Stadium.
@MLS
A Lasting Impact on the Beautiful Game
Carlos Vela retires not only as LAFC’s greatest player but as a pioneer for Mexican stars in MLS. His influence extended beyond statistics — he brought flair, humility, and a unique charisma that connected with fans.
Whether it was curling a shot into the top corner or assisting a teammate with a no-look pass, Vela played with joy and precision that left defenders guessing and fans cheering.
He will be remembered as:
One of the most technically gifted Mexican players of his generation
A trailblazer in MLS
The heartbeat of LAFC’s early success
Final Words
Carlos Vela’s retirement marks the end of an era — but also the beginning of a new chapter. As he transitions into an ambassadorial role, the legacy he built will continue to inspire.
From Cancún to Europe, and ultimately to the City of Angels, Carlos Vela's journey has been nothing short of legendary.