Former Arsenal and Real Sociedad Striker Carlos Vela Retires from Football
Carlos Vela, the former Arsenal and Real Sociedad striker, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36, ending a 19-year career on the pitch.
Vela graduated from Arsenal’s youth academy and made his first-team debut during a loan spell at Spanish side Salamanca.
He played 29 Premier League matches for Arsenal before spending seven years with La Liga club Real Sociedad.
Vela also earned 72 caps with the Mexican national team, playing as a central striker, attacking midfielder, and winger. He won the CONCACAF Gold Cup twice.
On Instagram, Vela wrote: “Throughout my football career, I experienced some truly special moments, but the time has come to officially retire from professional football.”
He added: “It was an honor and a privilege to share my journey with all of you.”
