Former Mexico star Carlos Vela is retiring, appointed Ambassador of Lafc

Ancient Mexico And Lafc Before Carlos Vela announced on Tuesday his retirement from football, with the first ambassador of the LAFC club.

“Throughout my career, I experienced very special moments, but the time has come to take his official retirement from professional football,” he wrote 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 love and support. It was an honor and a privilege to share my career with you all.”

Vela, which has been without a contract since the end of last year, helped the Lafc to raise its first MLS cup title (2022) and two supporters’ shields (2019, 2022).

He had returned to the LAFC in October 2024 for a short -term agreement after an absence of nine months after the expiration of his previous contract at the end of 2023.

The club rejected an option to renew its contract for 2025, but was initially in talks with the player to return.

He will now be recognized during a special evening in Carlos Vela on September 21 for the match against Real Salt Lake.

“Helping to build the LAFC and winning trophies for the club is a highlight of my career,” added Vela in the Lafc announcement. “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”

https://twitter.com/11carlosV/status/1927472712802267370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Signed as the first LAFC designated player for the inaugural season of the 2018 club, the winger took over the MLS with individual prices, including Golden Boot and MVP of 2019, as well as to establish the record for most of the goals scored (34) in a single season.

“From the start, Carlos was more than a simple player – he was the heart rate, the captain and the face of Lafc,” said the co -president and managing director of Lafc John Thorrington.

“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.”

Before his arrival MLS, the product of the Chivas Academy made a name for himself in Europe with appearances for ArsenalSalamanca, OsasunaWest Bromwich Albion and Real Sociedad. With Real Sociedad, Vela’s stock increased as a double player of the year for the Laliga team.

At the level of the national team, the native of Cancun represented Mexico from 2007 to 2018, winning 72 ceilings and scoring 19 goals.

He represented Mexico during the 2010 and 2018 World Cups, but refused to be called for the 2014 tournament in the midst of a three -year interruption of the national team.