Carlos Vela insists he is happy to continue his trade for Los Angeles FC

Mexico international Carlos Vela has said that he is content plying his trade for Los Angeles FC amid the recent speculation linking him with Spanish giants Barcelona. The experienced forward was recently associated with the Catalan giants, who were searching for a back-up option to Luis Suarez but ultimately they signed Kevin-Prince Boateng from Sassuolo instead.

When asked on the speculation, Vela highlighted that a deal never materialised between Barcelona and Los Angeles or else he could have found it hard to turn down advances from the reigning Spanish champions. The former Real Sociedad man added that he is content with his association with Los Angeles and he is hoping to guide the team to league glory in the forthcoming 2019 campaign.

““They show their interest, ask for your services and between clubs they make the decision“. In this case it didn't happen. … If it happened it was an exception because it's Barcelona, one of the most important [clubs] in the world and it's “difficult to say no“. I'm very well here, I don't want to leave and I'm very happy to be here. The club knows that I'm very happy here; that I love this city, this club, this league. ... My goals are clear, try to take my team to be a champion and personally seek to be the MVP,” he said.

Vela was the club’s first recruit last year after their admission to Major League Soccer was made official and he had a top 2018 season where he contributed 13 goals and 13 assists in 27 league games. Owing to this, Los Angeles finished third in the standings and were afforded an MLS Cup playoff run, though they were eliminated at the first knockout stage. Atlanta United, who were just in their second year in the top division, secured the Cup after beating Portland Timbers 2-0.