<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/"><strong>Lionel Messi</strong></a> has already etched his name into the <strong>MLS</strong> record books in numerous ways, raising the bar for what the league’s fans have come to expect and standing as the only player in history to win back-to-back Player of the Season honors. One particularly unique goal-contribution record, however, <strong>remains his alone, even as Anders Dreyer surpasses LAFC legend </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlos-vela/"><strong>Carlos Vela</strong></a><strong> on the all-time list</strong>.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/san-diego-fc/"><strong>San Diego FC</strong></a> have burst out of the gates this season, sitting at the top of the league on goal difference after a crushing <strong>5-0 win over CF Montréal</strong> and a <strong>2-0 victory over St. Louis City</strong>. Dreyer was central to both performances, contributing two assists in the opener before adding a goal and an assist in the second.</p>



<p>Those contributions have elevated <strong>Dreyer to second on the all-time list for the fastest players to reach the combined milestone of 20 goals and 20 assists in </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls/"><strong>MLS</strong></a><strong> history</strong>. The San Diego forward hit the mark in just <strong>36 games</strong>, a testament to the immediate and sustained impact he has made since arriving in the league in 2025.</p>



<p>Last season, Dreyer was the on-field engine of a San Diego side that not only reached the playoffs but topped the Western Conference and finished just four points shy of the Supporters’ Shield. <strong>The Danish star posted an exceptional 19 goals and 17 assists across 34 games in 2025</strong>, and has already added one goal and three assists in just two appearances this year.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/03/04163253/anders-dreyer-san-diego-fc-cf-montreal-1920x1080.webp" alt="Anders Dreyer #10 of San Diego FC battles for the ball with Brayan Vera #4 of CF Montréal." class="wp-image-625961"></figure><figcaption>Anders Dreyer #10 of San Diego FC battles for the ball with Brayan Vera #4 of CF Montréal.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Despite those remarkable numbers, the top spot on the list remains comfortably Messi’s. <strong>The Inter Miami star reached the 20-goal, 20-assist milestone in a staggering 26 games</strong> (six in 2023 and the following 20 in 2024) making him the fastest player ever to achieve the feat in MLS history.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/antoine-griezmanns-move-to-mlss-orlando-city-in-doubt-as-simeone-reportedly-pushes-him-to-stay-at-atletico-madrid/"></div>


<p>Dreyer’s rise, however, has been enough to displace Carlos Vela from second place. <strong>The former LAFC standout reached the milestone in 41 games, five more than the Dane</strong>. The top five is rounded out by Italian star <strong>Sebastian Giovinco in 42</strong> games and Kansas City Wizards legend <strong>Preki in 45,</strong> underscoring just how significant Dreyer’s achievement is — and how far ahead of the field Messi remains.</p>



<h2>Dreyer, the leader of San Diego FC on the pitch</h2>



<p>In under two years in North America, Anders Dreyer has established himself not only as the cornerstone of MLS’s newest franchise, <strong>but as one of the most dynamic players in the entire league</strong>.</p>



<p>San Diego secured Dreyer in January 2025 for a fee of around $5 million from Anderlecht, making him the <strong>club’s second Designated Player after Mexican international Hirving “<em>Chucky</em>” Lozano</strong>. While Lozano’s stint with the club seems to have reached a point of no return, Dreyer has more than filled the void, with his market value on <em>Transfermarkt</em> <strong>rising from €10 million to €15 million</strong> since his arrival.</p>

Lionel Messi’s unique MLS goal-contribution record remains intact as Anders Dreyer surpasses Carlos Vela

Lionel Messi’s unique MLS goal-contribution record remains intact as Anders Dreyer surpasses Carlos Vela - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

<p>Since joining <strong>MLS</strong> in 2023, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Lionel Messi</strong></a> has been a dominant force for Inter Miami, elevating his game to new heights. Already considered a crucial player, the Argentine superstar delivered his best individual season in the franchise yet, showcasing exceptional all-around skills that set him apart. Remarkably, <strong>he reached 48 goal contributions in a single season</strong>, sparking buzz among fans about <strong>potentially surpassing <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlos-vela/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carlos Vela</a>’s 2019 record.</strong></p>



<p>In the 2025 season, <strong>Lionel Messi</strong> delivered an extraordinary performance for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Miami</a>, scoring <strong>29 goals and providing 19 assists in just 28 games, amassing an impressive 48 goal contributions</strong>. This outstanding display marked his best season in MLS, solidifying his status as the most influential player for the Herons. However, even with these remarkable stats, Messi couldn’t eclipse Carlos Vela’s record-breaking season with <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lafc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles FC</a>.</strong></p>



<p>Carlos Vela joined <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS</a> in 2018 from Real Sociedad, initially without much fanfare, but quickly carved out a legacy at Los Angeles FC. The Mexican forward etched his name in the club’s history by becoming its second-highest scorer with 93 goals. <strong>In 2019, he set a remarkable record with 49 goal contributions in a single season, a benchmark that remains unmatched even as Lionel Messi dazzles this year.</strong></p>



<p>While Carlos Vela continues to hold an impressive record, a stark contrast exists between him and Lionel Messi. <strong>The Mexican star set the record at 30, but the Argentine star achieved similar feats at 38, underscoring their differences.</strong> Moreover, <strong>Messi was still shining in Europe in 2019, even securing his sixth Ballon d’Or.</strong> Furthermore, Inter Miami may soon renew Messi’s contract, hinting that he could soon claim Vela’s record for himself.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251019_WST_598068_lionel-messi-inter-miami-atlanta-united-2-1200x675_230adb41.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF." class="wp-image-597404" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Lionel Messi’s record-breaking impact at Inter Miami in only three seasons</h2>



<p>Lionel Messi’s move to MLS at 36 had fans expecting a subdued tenure with Inter Miami, but <strong>he has defied those expectations spectacularly. Now in his third season, he has netted an astounding 71 goals</strong>, making him the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. He leads by 29 goals over Luis Suarez, who ranks second. The Argentine star has not stopped there—<strong>he continues to break numerous league records</strong>, solidifying his legendary status in the league.</p>


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<p>Lionel Messi, despite his veteran status, has shattered three MLS records, showcasing his enduring brilliance. Against the New York Red Bulls, <strong>he delivered an astounding five assists, setting a benchmark</strong> for the most in a single game, while his <strong>record-breaking six goal contributions</strong> (one goal and five assists) in the same match further etched his name in league history. Adding to his feats, <strong>Messi became the quickest player to reach 40 goal contributions</strong> in just 26 games.</p>


        

        

Lionel Messi hits 48 goal contributions for Inter Miami: Did he just surpass Carlos Vela’s MLS record?

Lionel Messi becomes MLS top scorer: How many times has Cristiano Ronaldo topped the charts?

Video: Lionel Messi nets hat-trick for Inter Miami vs Nashville SC on MLS Decision Day

Lionel Messi hits 48 goal contributions for Inter Miami: Did he just surpass Carlos Vela’s MLS record? - World Soccer Talk

<p>The 2025 <strong>Major League Soccer</strong> regular season is nearing its end, and the playoff picture is gradually coming into focus. <strong>Inter Miami</strong> are already among the qualified teams, despite having several matches still to play. In those remaining games, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a></strong> will be chasing a historic milestone currently held by <strong>Carlos Vela.</strong></p>



<p>Messi is currently the top scorer in <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls/">MLS</a></strong> this season with 24 goals, one ahead of <strong>LAFC’s Denis Bouanga </strong>and two clear of <strong>Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge</strong>. The Argentine forward reached that tally largely in the second half of the year, following his return from the <strong>FIFA Club World Cup</strong>, with multiple multi-goal performances.</p>



<p>But goals aren’t Messi’s only contribution to <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a></strong>. He’s also been a key playmaker. In that department, he ranks second in the league with 13 assists — tied with <strong>FC Cincinnati’s Evander</strong> and trailing only <strong>San Diego FC’s Andres Dreyer (</strong>16).</p>



<p>Those combined numbers place Messi at the top of the goal contribution leaderboard for the 2025 MLS season. The 38-year-old star has recorded <strong>37 direct goal involvements for the Herons</strong> in league play alone. That makes him the first player in MLS history to surpass 35 goal contributions in back-to-back seasons.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250930_WST_594104_lionel-messi-inter-miami-nycfc-1200x675_9bd29a5d.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring the team&apos;s second goal during the MLS match between New York City FC and Inter Miami CF at Citi Field on September 24, 2025 in New York City." class="wp-image-593199" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi is the MLS top scorer this season.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Messi chasing Carlos Vela’s record</h2>



<p>The 37 goal contributions Messi has this year tie him with <strong>Zlatan Ibrahimovic</strong> and <strong>Josef Martinez</strong> on the all-time single-season list in MLS. However, all three trail <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlos-vela/">Carlos Vela</a></strong>. The Mexican icon holds the all-time record with <strong>49 goal contributions</strong> (34 goals and 15 assists in 2019 with Los Angeles FC).</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/denis-bouanga-breaks-carlos-velas-historic-record-in-lafc-win-over-real-salt-lake/"></div>


<p>That leaves Messi a significant gap to close: <strong>Leo needs 12 more goals or assists in the remainder of the 2025 regular season to match Vela’s mark</strong>. With the season winding down, it’s a tough challenge — but not impossible.</p>



<p>Inter Miami hold a scheduling advantage over most MLS teams: they still have two games in hand after postponements due to their participation in the Club World Cup and the <strong>Leagues Cup</strong>. That gives them a total of four remaining matches in the regular season. <strong>For Messi to match Vela’s record, he’ll need to average three goal contributions per game.</strong></p>



<h2>What matches are left for Inter Miami?</h2>



<p>The Herons’ four remaining regular season games could give Messi the opportunity to reach Carlos Vela’s record for most goal contributions in a single MLS season — and also allow the team to chase an even more significant collective goal.</p>



<p>Seven points behind <strong>Philadelphia Union</strong>, Inter Miami still have a chance to close the gap in the Eastern Conference standings and contend for the <strong>Supporters’ Shield</strong>, which would be the third official title in club history. Their first test comes Tuesday against <strong>Chicago Fire</strong>, followed by a home match on Saturday against <strong>New England Revolution.</strong> They’ll then host <strong>Atlanta United</strong> on October 11 and finish the regular season away at <strong>Nashville SC</strong> on October 18.</p>

Messi chasing MLS all-time record: How many goal contributions does he need to surpass Vela’s milestone?

Messi chasing MLS all-time record: How many goal contributions does he need to surpass Vela's milestone? - World Soccer Talk

<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lafc"><strong>LAFC</strong></a> is having one of its most promising seasons in Major League Soccer, and while several postponed matches remain, the team’s performance under <strong>Steve Cherundolo</strong> has fans optimistic about another deep playoff run. What stands out the most, however, is the rise of <strong>Denis Bouanga</strong>, who is quickly etching his name into the club’s history books.</p>



<p>The <strong>Gabonese winger</strong> has been nothing short of spectacular in 2025. With <strong>19 goals and 5 assists so far this MLS season</strong>, Bouanga is the team’s top scorer and playmaker. His ability to deliver in crucial moments has been decisive for LAFC’s push to the top of the Western Conference.</p>



<p>Bouanga made headlines after scoring against <strong>Real Salt Lake</strong>, which marked his <strong>94th career goal with LAFC</strong>. That strike allowed him to surpass <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlos-vela">Carlos Vela</a></strong>, the Mexican superstar who previously held the club’s all-time scoring record with 93 goals.</p>



<p>For LAFC fans, this moment carried special significance. Vela, who joined the franchise at its inception in 2018, set a standard for greatness with his legendary <strong>2019 MVP season</strong> that saw him score a record-breaking <strong>34 goals</strong> in a single MLS campaign. Now, Bouanga has stepped up as the face of the attack, showing that the club’s legacy of elite forwards is alive and well.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250918_WST_591488_Carlos-Vela-1200x675_84e1919a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-591499" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Carlos Vela was LAFC’s top scorer and is the most successful player in the club’s history.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The milestone that redefined LAFC history</h2>



<p>When Bouanga tied Vela’s mark in the match against San Jose Earthquakes, he expressed his emotions through the club’s social media channels:<br><strong><em>“I’m very happy to equal Carlos. I have no more words. Let’s go LAFC!”</em></strong></p>


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<p>Just a few days later, his goal against Real Salt Lake pushed him past Vela, officially making him <strong>the all-time leading scorer in LAFC history</strong>.</p>



<h3>LAFC’s top scorers of all time</h3>



<ul><li><strong>Denis Bouanga – 94 goals</strong></li><li><strong>Carlos Vela – 93 goals</strong></li></ul>



<p>This accomplishment underscores how quickly Bouanga has become a club legend. Arriving in Los Angeles in 2022, he has consistently delivered on the field, and now his name sits at the very top of LAFC’s record books.</p>



<h2>What’s next for Bouanga and LAFC?</h2>



<p>With the regular season heading into its decisive stretch, LAFC has games in hand compared to some of its Western Conference rivals. That means Bouanga could extend his scoring record even further while helping LAFC climb the standings.</p>



<p>Alongside veterans like <strong>Hugo Lloris</strong> in goal and <strong>Heung-Min Son</strong> leading the attack, Bouanga’s performances make LAFC one of the top contenders for the <strong>MLS Cup 2025</strong>.</p>

Denis Bouanga breaks Carlos Vela’s historic record in LAFC win over Real Salt Lake

Denis Bouanga breaks Carlos Vela’s historic record in LAFC win over Real Salt Lake - World Soccer Talk

<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls">Major League Soccer</a> (MLS) clubs are finalizing their rosters for</strong> <strong>the 2025 season</strong>, resulting in a significant number of notable free agents. The availability of these experienced and talented players presents a prime opportunity for teams to strengthen their squads.</p>



<p><strong>These free agents represent a significant opportunity for MLS teams</strong> to bolster their rosters. Their experience and proven abilities in the league will be highly sought after. </p>



<p>The signings made during this period will play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of the 2025 MLS season.</p>



<h2>Top 10 free agents</h2>



<ul><li><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlos-vela/">Carlos Vela</a> (Forward, LAFC):</strong>&nbsp;A highly creative and prolific goalscorer, Vela was the 2019 MLS MVP and a key figure in LAFC’s 2022 MLS Cup victory. He played only 4 minutes this season.</li><li><strong>Josef Martínez (Forward, CF Montréal):</strong>&nbsp;A decorated MLS veteran, Martínez won an MLS Cup, Golden Boot, and MVP award with Atlanta United. He remains one of the league’s top active goalscorers (14 goals, 3 assists in 26 games in 2024).</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241215_WST_544163_Josef-Martinez-1200x675_a3c6d5b4.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-544166" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085855/Josef-Martinez.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<ul><li><strong>Xavier Arreaga (Defender, New England Revolution):</strong>&nbsp;A strong and consistent defender, Arreaga played a crucial role in Seattle Sounders’ 2022 Concacaf Champions League triumph (32 games in 2024).</li><li><strong>Raúl Ruidíaz (Forward, Seattle Sounders):</strong>&nbsp;A prolific goal scorer, Ruidíaz played a key role in Seattle’s 2019 MLS Cup win and 2022 Concacaf Champions League victory (8 goals in 32 games in 2024). He is Seattle’s all-time leading scorer.</li><li><strong>Fafà Picault (Forward, Vancouver Whitecaps):</strong>&nbsp;A versatile and dynamic winger, Picault has had a successful MLS career with Nashville SC, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, and Philadelphia Union (10 goals, 8 assists in 40 games in 2024).</li></ul>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/san-diego-fc-shocks-in-2024-expansion-draft-with-strategic-picks-and-key-trades/"></div>


<ul><li><strong>Johnny Russell (Forward, Sporting Kansas City):</strong>&nbsp;The captain of Sporting KC, Russell is known for his leadership and ability to score crucial goals (5 goals, 5 assists in 36 games in 2024). A club icon since 2018.</li><li><strong>Jesús Murillo (Defender, LAFC):</strong>&nbsp;A strong central defender, Murillo was a key part of LAFC’s 2022 MLS Cup-winning team (34 games, 1 assist in 2024).</li><li><strong>Albert Rusnák (Midfielder, Seattle Sounders):</strong>&nbsp;A creative midfielder with excellent vision and game management skills (11 goals, 16 assists in 42 games in 2024).</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241215_WST_544163_Albert-Rusnak-1200x675_fdc73de8.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-544164" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15085816/Albert-Rusnak.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<ul><li><strong>Jeremy Ebobisse (Forward, San Jose Earthquakes):</strong>&nbsp;A mobile and clinical forward, Ebobisse has scored important goals for San Jose in recent seasons (10 goals, 1 assist in 35 games in 2024).</li><li><strong>João Paulo (Midfielder, Seattle Sounders):</strong>&nbsp;A technically gifted Brazilian midfielder, João Paulo was vital in Seattle’s 2022 Concacaf Champions League success (32 games, 1 assist in 2024).</li></ul>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/lionel-messi-no-longer-the-most-expensive-in-mls-a-season-star-set-to-overtake-the-inter-miami-star/"></div>

Discover the 10 free agents searching for new opportunities in MLS for the 2025 season

The 10 star players who are free agents and are seeking a destination in MLS for the 2025 season - World Soccer Talk

The top 10 players available in MLS: Free agents seeking new homes for the 2025 season

The 10 star players who are free agents and are seeking a destination in MLS for the 2025 season

<p>LAFC winger Carlos Vela is drawing rumors about returning to LaLiga with his former club, Real Sociedad. Sociedad is just one of the clubs rumored to be in the market for the Mexican. For example, Cruz Azul in Liga MX wants Vela ahead of the Clausura 2024 phase of the league’s season. Yet, Vela has an extensive history with Real Sociedad. The reputation and camaraderie with the LaLiga side may make a move back to Spain more likely.</p>



<p>However, a move to LaLiga is not overly simple. There are concerns for both the club and the personal motives of Vela. For Real Sociedad, it all comes down to money and availability. The Spanish side wants to bring back the player who made over 250 appearances with a strong goal record. It may not be feasible, though.</p>



<p>According to <a href="https://twitter.com/JonVinambres/status/1741424696548073675" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jon Viñambres</a>, a reporter covering Real Sociedad, the club is in communication with Carlos Vela and his representatives. The Spanish side cannot match the financial offers from other clubs. Plus, Real Sociedad would have to use the January transfer window to make room in the squad. Viñambres would guess Mohamed Ali Cho would be the player to make way for Vela <em>if</em> Real Sociedad makes a move.</p>



<p>On a personal level, Vela sees the more lucrative offers of other clubs as more important as a favor to his family. Moreover, staying in Mexico would keep him closer to where he was growing up. Even if his family were in Los Angeles because of his exploits with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/lafc-tv-schedule-los-angeles-fc/">LAFC</a>, he would not be far away.</p>



<h2>Real Sociedad wants Carlos Vela to return</h2>



<p>When Vela played for Real Sociedad from 2012 to 2018, he was a regular starter for the side. His 248 appearances with the side yielded 73 goals and 43 assists. He was the club’s player of the season in both 2011/12 and 2013/14. In those seasons, Real Sociedad finished 11th and seventh.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240102_WST_480908_Carlos-Vela-Real-Sociedad-1200x675_59c1aeb2.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-480926" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/Carlos-Vela-Real-Sociedad-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/Carlos-Vela-Real-Sociedad-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/Carlos-Vela-Real-Sociedad-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/01/Carlos-Vela-Real-Sociedad.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Since his departure in January 2018, La Real has finished in the top half of the league table each season. Last year, Real Sociedad finished fourth, which returned the club to the UEFA Champions League, where the Spanish side won its group.</p>



<p>Carlos Vela can still return to LAFC next season, even though his contract with the California club is up. Yet, LAFC may want to spend its ‘designated player’ spots on options who are younger than Vela. The Mexican is turning 35 in March this year.</p>



<h2>Vela a revelation in LAFC’s brief history</h2>



<p>Carlos Vela was the first player LAFC signed when the club launched in 2018. As the side’s first designated player, he carried the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/08/20/lafcs-success-in-mls-and-beyond/">weight of early success for a club</a> that garnered attention in the United States. He <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vela-brace-gives-lafc-bragging-rights-in-el-trafico-thriller-20230416-WST-428706.html">smashed all those expectations</a> en route to success both individually and for the club. An MLS Cup Champion in 2022, Vela is a three-time <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">MLS</a> All-Star. In 2019, the year LAFC won the Supporters’ Shield, Vela won the MLS Golden Boot as its top scorer. He was also MLS MVP that season.</p>



<p>He failed to win any silverware with Real Sociedad during his time in Spain. A return to the side this winter could open the door to success in one of the competitions Real Sociedad is still alive in.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

LAFC's Carlos Vela linked with return to LaLiga side

LAFC winger Carlos Vela is drawing rumors to return to LaLiga with his former club, Real Sociedad. Vela has over 250 appearances with La Real.


<p>This year’s playoff format in MLS is significantly different from what long-time fans are accustomed to, and unfortunately, not in a positive matter.</p>



<p>Shortly before the commencement of the 2023 season, the league unveiled the details of an expanded postseason structure, marking a significant departure from the recent trend of single-game knockout matches.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">MLS</a> now grants <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/without-messi-why-watch-the-mls-cup-playoffs-20231011-WST-461382.html">playoff access</a> to nine teams from each conference, allowing a substantial 62 percent of the league’s teams to participate, with more than half having the privilege of hosting at least one postseason game. Furthermore, a rather intricate addition to this format is the incorporation of a best-of-three round, a feature harkening back to the league’s early years.</p>



<p>This best-of-three round has historical roots, with MLS employing two different versions of it from 1996 to 2002, including the use of a 35-yard shootout to break ties and an approach allowing ties based on a “first to five points” system. Many argue that there is no legitimate competitive rationale for the recent postseason setup, particularly the introduction of a best-of-three first round, followed by single-game matches in the subsequent rounds.</p>



<h2>Format did not come out until just before season</h2>



<p>What is even more concerning is that the main driving force behind this innovation appears to be commercial in nature. Jonathan Tannenwald of the <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/mls-playoffs-schedule-philadelphia-union-jim-curtin-20231027.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Philadelphia Inquirer</em></a> claims everything is about money and viewership for the league. What compounds the issue is that the league’s motivations have been evident to a multitude of individuals, including players, coaches, front-office personnel, and others who are willing to express their opinions candidly but anonymously, out of apprehension regarding potential repercussions.</p>



<p>The initial rationale behind this decision lies in the extended postseason. It provides <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/apple-tv-customers-to-pay-more-to-get-season-pass-discount-20231025-WST-464512.html">Apple</a>, the league’s streaming broadcaster, with a larger inventory of games to include in its package. Therefore, more fans will pay to watch games on MLS Season Pass.</p>



<p>In contrast, the preceding four years, with single-game rounds throughout, did indeed deliver some thrilling moments. Nonetheless, they also sparked discontent among personnel from lower-seeded teams. Clubs in the bottom half of qualification believed they deserved home games solely based on their playoff participation. These complainants have now had their demands met.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231027_WST_465370_Vela-MLS-Cup-1200x675.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-465420" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/10/Vela-MLS-Cup-1200x675.png 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/10/Vela-MLS-Cup-300x169.png 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/10/Vela-MLS-Cup-768x432.png 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/10/Vela-MLS-Cup.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Carlos Vela helped LAFC capture its first MLS Cup last season.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Carlos Vela takes exception to new MLS Cup Playoffs format</h2>



<p>The top seven teams from each conference will secure direct entry to the first round. In contrast, the eighth and ninth-placed teams from both conferences engaged in a one-off game in the Wild Card matches. The eastern conference wild card winner was the New York Red Bulls. Out of the west, Sporting KC defeated the San Jose Earthquakes in a penalty shootout.</p>



<p>This arrangement will result in 16 teams progressing to Round One, where they will compete in a knockout format. These 16 teams will be divided into two groups of eight, maintaining the distinction between the Eastern and Western Conferences.</p>



<p>The team with the higher seed hosts the first game. Then, the lower-seeded team hosts the second game. In each game, there must be a winner. Therefore, if either leg ends in a draw after 90 minutes, the game goes straight to a penalty shootout. The team to win two games in a best-of-three series advances. After that, the conference semifinals, conference final and MLS Cup Final are one-off affairs.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the conference champions square off in the MLS Cup Championship finals. The MLS Cup final is on Dec. 9. The higher-seeded team hosts the final. Last season, that was Los Angeles FC, which won the competition.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/lafc-coach-issues-warning-to-mls-after-campeones-cup-loss-20230929-WST-459433.html">LAFC</a> captain <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/carlos-vela-takes-aim-at-leagues-cup-for-bold-reason-20230804-WST-447750.html">Carlos Vela</a> secured MLS Playoffs qualification under the old format in five out of six seasons in MLS. However, he appears uncertain about the league’s rationale for adding the opening series.</p>



<p>“It doesn’t make sense, but it is what it is. The league decided and we can only try to win the first two [games] to have time to prepare better for the next round”, he said at a press conference before the playoff opener against the Vancouver Whitecaps, via <a href="https://www.tudn.com/futbol/mls/carlos-vela-critica-nuevo-formato-playoffs-ideado-mls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TUDN</a>.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</em>.</p>


Carlos Vela joins fans in perplexity over new MLS Playoffs format

Does the new MLS Playoffs format confuse or annoy you like it has to LAFC star and defending MLS Cup champion Carlos Vela?


<p>Los Angeles FC star winger Carlos Vela has spoken out against the Leagues Cup, saying that it unfairly targets Liga MX teams.</p>



<p>The United States and Canada play host each year to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/">Leagues Cup</a>, a North American soccer tournament including teams from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Major League Soccer</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-liga-mx-us-tv-internet/">Liga MX</a>. Four clubs from each division participated in the first season, which began in July 2019.</p>



<p>The first event was an American-hosted, single-elimination tournament that concluded on September 18, 2019, in Las Vegas. With the addition of all MLS and Liga MX teams in 2023, the event became a regional cup for those leagues. The top three clubs in the Leagues Cup qualify for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-the-concacaf-champions-league-on-us-tv/">CONCACAF Champions Cup</a>, and the winner receives a first-round bye.</p>



<h5>Messi’s presence boosted interest in Leagues Cup</h5>



<p>The Leagues Cup has received a lot of media interest in <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/2023/07/17/leagues-cup-2023-mls-liga-mx-tournament-explainer-messi-miami-debut/70411768007/">its first expanded year</a> because of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/inter-miami-v-orlando-coverage-plans-for-messi-in-leagues-cup-20230801-WST-446887.html">Lionel Messi</a>, the new star of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a>. Because the United States will host the tournament, the Mexican teams must travel for each match.</p>



<h2>Carlos Vela thinks Mexico should also host Leagues Cup games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="HIGHLIGHTS: Los Angeles Football Club vs. FC Juárez | August 2, 2023" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P6mc1plpxnE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Following their 2022 MLS Cup <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/los-angeles-win-major-league-soccer-cup-20221106-WST-407027.html">triumph</a>, LAFC earned a bye into the round of 32. However, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/carlos-vela-issues-warning-to-lionel-messi-about-mls-brand-20230802-WST-447121.html">Vela</a> is unhappy that none of the games will be played in Mexico or anywhere else in Liga MX. All of them will take place in the United States.</p>



<p>“For me, the fairest thing is to have matches in Mexico as well. Liga MX clubs are at a disadvantage because they play away from home and always play away games. We should be able to enjoy all three countries. There are teams from Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.</p>



<p>“Ideally, matches would be played in all three countries. There shouldn’t be as much of an advantage for the home team. This will be the first edition. It should evolve over the years. They’ll find the right formula to make it enjoyable for all parties,” Vela <a href="https://theathletic.com/4726888/2023/07/30/carlos-vela-lafc-messi-mls/">told</a> The Athletic.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO &amp; ZUMA Wire</em></p>


Carlos Vela has voiced his displeasure with the Leagues Cup structure, claiming that it unfairly disadvantages Liga MX teams.

Carlos Vela takes aim at Leagues Cup for bold reason


<p>Inter Miami’s recruitment of Lionel Messi has drawn international attention to Major League Soccer (MLS).</p>



<p>After his contract with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">Paris Saint-Germain</a> expired last month, Messi signed with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a>. He has joined MLS after a two-decade career in Europe’s top leagues with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.</p>



<p>The league’s top players, most recently Carlos Vela of Los Angeles FC’s starting lineup, have all welcomed the coming of the world’s finest player. The Mexican expressed his opinion to <a href="https://theathletic.com/4726888/2023/07/30/carlos-vela-lafc-messi-mls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a> about what Messi means to MLS while attending a promotion event.</p>



<h5>Messi already leaving his mark with Miami</h5>



<p>Lionel Messi has been impressive in his first two Leagues Cup outings for Inter Miami, scoring three times. Notably, he reversed the downward spiral of a club that desperately needed a win. They appear like a more formidable team with Sergio Busquets in the fold.</p>



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<h2>Vela expects Messi to expand MLS brand</h2>



<p>According to Vela though, the finest player in the world has to be prepared for everything to expand his brand and promote the growth of soccer in the United States.</p>



<p>“He just has to enjoy his football and decide what to do on the pitch to really stand out. He comes from so many years playing in Europe with Barcelona and PSG, (where) strikers receive excellent service and all you have to do is finish the job. In MLS, you have to do a little more,” he said.</p>



<p>“Messi will enjoy his time here. If there is one thing (soccer players) have in this country, it is quality of life. The comfort of knowing that after playing, you can have time with your family and go to public places without so much stress; he will have that. Obviously, Messi is well known around the world, but based on what he is used to, he will live a more peaceful life here.”</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</em></p>



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After Messi transferred to MLS this summer, Los Angeles FC winger Carlos Vela offered some words of wisdom to the Argentine superstar.

Carlos Vela issues warning to Lionel Messi about MLS brand

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