Carlos Vela confirms negotiations over LAFC contract extension

Los Angeles Football Club lost 2-1 to Austin FC on Wednesday night at Banc of California Stadium and are now in second place in the standings in the Western Conference. This was their first home loss of the year and their second consecutive defeat, after losing to Colorado over the weekend.

Carlos Vela reaches a milestone

The captain of Los Angeles FC converted a penalty kick after being pulled down inside the box late in the second half. It was in the 86th minute when Carlos Vela found the back of the net for the fifth time this season in 12 appearances and reached a milestone in Major League Soccer.

Vela became the third-fastest player in MLS history to reach 100 combined goals and assists, having needed 98 regular season appearances. The 33-year-old has also scored another two goals and provided three assists during the MLS Cup playoffs since 2018.

“After two defeats it is time to show character and the personality of the team to get out of this situation. We have to show how good we are as a team and get out of this situation,” Vela said after the game against Austin.

Star discusses contract extension

Vela’s current contract is due to expire on 30 June and he could leave as a free agent during the summer transfer window. A few weeks ago it was reported that he was in the process of signing a new Designated Player contract to remain with LAFC at least through 2023, but no deal has been finalized according to the player.

“I mean this is soccer because until you sign, nothing is for sure,” Vela said. “The club and myself are working. Both sides are doing some effort to make this work but at the end when we both want the same thing it could end well. I love playing in Los Angeles, in this stadium with these fans and if it is in my hands I will be here and help this club win a trophy. I am doing my part and we will see how things end.”