Carlos Vela has missed 26 games in two years with LAFC

Carlos Vela has proven to be one of the best players in Major League Soccer since signing with Los Angeles FC in 2018. In his second year, the Mexican international helped LAFC win the Supporters Shield and broke all individual records in the league with the most goals and assists during the regular campaign.

Injuries have prevented Vela from reaching top form

Unfortunately, Vela suffered a knee injury during the 2020 MLS regular season and he missed a total of 12 games. He was able to recover in time for the playoffs but LAFC lost 3-1 to the Seattle Sounders in the first round. That season the Mexican international scored four goals and gave one assist.

This season has been no different for the 32-year-old. He suffered a hamstring injury during the 2021 MLS regular season opener and he left the field in the 22nd minute of the match. LAFC was able to deal without their captain and defeated Austin FC 2-0. Vela would miss the next three games, but was able to recover and return to action in the team’s 2-0 loss against Seattle.

He was able to reach his top form and scored five goals and gave four assists in 16 consecutive league appearances. He suffered another hamstring injury on 22 August in LAFC’s 2-1 defeat to Vancouver and since then he has missed nine games. In two years he has missed a total of 26 games due to injuries and he is expected to return on 20 October against FC Dallas.