Wed Sep 18 18:37:58 UTC 2024: ## LAFC Welcomes Back Carlos Vela After Nine Months Away
**Los Angeles, CA** – After a nine-month absence, LAFC legend Carlos Vela has returned to the club, signing a new contract with the reigning MLS Cup champions. The move comes after a summer of speculation and negotiations, with both sides eventually agreeing on a deal that saw Vela take a salary cut from his previous Designated Player status.
“I don’t say this lightly – LAFC is not what it is without Carlos Vela,” said LAFC co-president and GM John Thorrington. “That’s on the field, that’s off the field. It did not feel right not having him here the last few months.”
Vela, who was the first player signed in LAFC history back in 2017, was a key figure in the club’s rise to prominence, winning three major trophies and setting numerous individual records during his first stint. His return adds firepower to an already potent LAFC attack that features reigning MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga and French legend Olivier Giroud.
“We’re really grateful to have him back where he belongs,” Thorrington said.
While Vela’s return is a welcome boost for LAFC, the club will need to carefully manage his integration into the team. The 35-year-old has not played a competitive match since December 2023, and his fitness level will need to be assessed before he can contribute to the club’s playoff push.
“We’ll take it one day at a time in how quickly we can get him up to speed and see what he can contribute on the field for us in an important run-in,” Thorrington said.
LAFC fans will get their first glimpse of Vela in action on Wednesday night, September 18, when he will be formally reintroduced to the crowd. The club has seven regular season games remaining before the playoffs, and Vela’s experience and leadership could prove to be invaluable in their quest for another MLS Cup.
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