Why MLS salary rules might force Carlos Vela to leave LAFC

LAFC star Carlos Vela passes during a match against Real Salt Lake in October. “But if the other part doesn’t work or doesn’t work in the way that I want, I won’t be here.” As one of LAFC’s two designated players — leading scorer Dénis Bouanga is the other — Vela was guaranteed $4.4 million this season. Asked if he would take an extra moment to take in the scene at the BMO Stadium on Saturday, he said, “I don’t take it, like, maybe it’s the last time.” Vela appeared in every one of LAFC’s 34 regular-season games this year, scoring nine goals and registering 12 assists. “In the end, I’m happy with my season.” Arguably the greatest Mexican player of his generation, Vela scored an MLS record 34 goals in 2019 and won an MLS Cup last year. “I want to still be in L.A.” MLS should be facilitating Vela’s return to LAFC, not obstructing it.