LAFC club legend Carlos Vela returned to the training facility on Monday after a nine-month hiatus, reclaiming his locker and reuniting with his teammates in a Black and Gold family reunion.
“When nine months ago the league ended, I didn’t realize it was the last game,” Vela shared. “After that long period, something was missing. It’s about having a good end; knowing it’s the end of the career. That’s why we’re back. After many years, you have to end in a good way.”
It was only a week earlier that LAFC informed Vela’s representatives that if he wanted to return, it had to be now or never with the MLS roster freeze deadline looming. Although time was running out, a deal was struck to bring Vela back to the team.
Despite the desire of both parties for Vela’s return, MLS roster rules had caused frustrations and delays in finding a resolution, leading to a lack of a formal goodbye from LAFC during the season.
Luckily, changes in budget allocations and MLS roster structures during the summer allowed for Vela’s signing, even though he had to take a pay cut to return without a designated player contract.
By Wednesday, negotiations were finalized, and contracts were signed just in time for the roster deadline on Friday.
Regarding the 2025 club option on Vela’s contract, LAFC’s GM expects a smoother decision-making process than in the past, with alignment between the club and Vela expected.
As decisions are made about Vela’s future with the team, the balance between sentimentality and performance on the pitch is considered.
With Vela’s return, there is a renewed sense of normalcy within the team, as his presence was sorely missed throughout the season. The impact of his leadership alongside new teammates Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud is anticipated.
For Vela, the goal is to end his career on a high note, potentially adding more achievements to his list of successes at LAFC before retiring.
Winning a trophy would be the ideal conclusion to Vela’s time with the club, fulfilling both personal and team goals.
