‘Honour and a privilege’ – Arsenal cult hero, 36, announces retirement after record-breaking career
CARLOS VELA has announced he is retiring from football aged 36.
The Mexican striker spent the first seven years of his two-decade career at Arsenal.
Vela was signed by the Gunners from Mexican side Guadalajara’s youth team in 2003.
It took THREE years for the club to get the forward a work permit, resulting in several loans to Spain.
Vela would become a cult hero at the Emirates, appearing in 62 games and scoring 11 goals.
He began his Arsenal career in stunning fashion, netting a hat-trick on his debut in a 6-0 win over Sheffield United in 2008.
Vela was dubbed a “world class striker” by then boss Arsene Wenger – only for his Gunners career to stall in spectacular fashion.
He made just three starts over the next three seasons.
And it wasn’t until a move to Real Sociedad in 2012 that Vela rediscovered his scoring touch.
The 36-year-old netted 73 times in 250 games for the Spanish club.
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And he became Los Angeles FC’s first-ever signing in 2017, becoming even more prolific over the pond.
Vela’s time in the MLS has seen him become the face of LAFC.
In 2019, he netted 34 goals in 31 games, by far the best return of his pro career.
After seven years in California, he has decided to call it quits after failing to find a new club as a free agent.
Vela said in a statement: “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.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to share my career with all of you.”
Antoine Griezmann, who played with Vela at Real Sociedad, responded: “I love you very much, Carlitos, thank you for your friendship.”
Mexican stopper Guillermo Ochoa added: “An honour to share the field with you, always a legend! You’ll be missed on the pitch.”