The 2021 MLS All-Star Game between the top players of the Major Soccer League and the Liga MX will take place on Wednesday, August 25 at the Banc of California Stadium. Fans have waited a long time for this match, however they won’t see one of the players they voted in for the game, Carlos Vela.
The LAFC forward was called in to play in the All-Star MLS team, as he was one of the players voted by fans, media and players. However, the 32-year-old was pulled out on Monday, before the All-Star Skills Challenge, an two-hour event prior to the game. Chicharito Hernandez and Tajon Buchanan have also pulled out of the game.
Vela was announced as part of the 28 player-roster under the management of LAFC coach Bob Bradley. He has played 17 games in the MLS Regular season, so far. Here check out why the Mexican won’t be playing in the MLS All-Star Game.
2021 MLS All-Star Game: Why isn’t Carlos Vela playing?
Vela had to abandon last Saturday’s match against Vancouver in the 15th minute with a quadriceps injury. LAFC ended up losing the game 2-1. The Mexican suffered the same injury in the first game of this season.
The forward, second of the team with five goals so far, reinjured it on Saturday playing on artificial turf. LAFC coach, Bradley, said that the quadriceps has been bothering Vela “throughout the season” and that they have been “very cautious”.
Without doubt, Vela will be missed during the All-Star Game. The forward has played in two World Cups for Mexico and set the single-season MLS scoring record with 34 goals for LAFC in 2019. It has been reported that MLS has named Inter Miami midfielder Rodolfo Pizarro and Atlanta United defender George Bello as replacements.
