Former Arsenal Star Joins LAFC Ownership Group

Carlos Vela takes on new role with Major League Soccer club after retirement

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:49pm

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Former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela has joined the ownership group of Los Angeles FC, the Major League Soccer club has confirmed. Vela, who played a central role in establishing LAFC as one of the league's leading sides, will be formally introduced in his new role during a press conference at BMO Stadium.

Why it matters

This move ensures that one of LAFC's most iconic players remains closely connected to the organization, extending the legacy he built on the field while helping guide the club's ambitions in the years ahead. It also highlights a growing trend of former professional players investing in clubs across Europe, North America and Africa to support the development of teams and football communities.

The details

Vela's connection with LAFC dates back to 2017 when he became the club's first designated player signing ahead of their inaugural season in Major League Soccer. He quickly emerged as the face of the franchise following its debut campaign in 2018 and played a central role in establishing the club as one of the league's leading sides. Over the course of his time in Los Angeles, the Mexican international made more than 150 appearances, scoring dozens of goals and providing numerous assists. He helped lead LAFC to the 2022 MLS Cup and produced one of the most remarkable individual seasons in league history in 2019, registering 34 goals and 10 assists to win the MLS Most Valuable Player award.

  • Vela joined LAFC as the club's first designated player in 2017.
  • LAFC debuted in MLS in 2018, with Vela emerging as the face of the franchise.
  • Vela led LAFC to the 2022 MLS Cup and won the MLS MVP award in 2019.
  • Vela retired from professional football in May 2025.

The players

Carlos Vela

A former Arsenal forward who has joined the ownership group of Los Angeles FC after retiring from professional football in 2025.

Los Angeles FC

The Major League Soccer club that has confirmed Carlos Vela's addition to its ownership group.

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What they’re saying

“Becoming part of the ownership group is both an honour and a responsibility. I have a deep emotional connection with this club and the city of Los Angeles, and this role allows me to continue contributing to LAFC's future beyond my playing days.”

— Carlos Vela

What’s next

Vela will be formally introduced in his new role during a press conference at BMO Stadium, highlighting LAFC's intention to maintain strong ties with one of the most influential players in its history.

The takeaway

This move demonstrates the growing trend of former professional players investing in clubs to support the development of teams and football communities. Vela's transition from a star player to an owner of LAFC ensures that one of the club's most iconic figures remains closely connected to the organization, extending his legacy and helping guide the club's ambitions in the years ahead.