Former Arsenal fan favorite Carlos Vela has announced his retirement after a 19-year career.
The Mexican attacker came through the Academy of Arsenal after he had become at Guadalajara, 16 years old and seven years in the Emirates, with a number of loan spells, including at West Brom.
The 36-year-old is six months without a club since leaving Los Angeles FC (Lafc), but eventually announced that he would hang his boots on Tuesday evening.
He wrote on Instagram: 'During my career I have experienced very special moments, but it is time to officially retire from professional football.
'There are not enough words to express my gratitude to my family, all the clubs that gave me a chance, and the fans for their support and affection.
“Thanks, Carlos.
“It was an honor and a privilege to share my career with you all.”
His teammates were quick to pay tribute, with former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez who commented: 'A true pleasure to have shared so many moments with you. I love you. “
Antoine Griezmann, who played with Vela in Real Sociedad, wrote: “I love you very much, Carlitos, thanks for your friendship.”
The goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa of Mexico added: 'An honor to share the field with you, always a legend! You will be missed on the field. '
While Vela came to Arsenal in 2005, supporters should wait three years to see him in action after he had been sent to Spain to acquire a work permit.
He scored a hat trick on his full debut in a 6-0 win over Sheffield United in 2008 and was recommended to 'quickly be a world-class striker' by Arsene Wenger.
Gunners -fans went to the Mexican because of his flair and exciting playing style, but he only made three starts in the next three years.
He was borrowed in the 2010/11 winter window of West Brom, and scored twice in eight league games.
Vela moved permanently to Real Sociedad in 2012, where he stayed for six seasons.
He was the first signing of Lafc in 2018 and checked 93 times and offered 53 assists, in 189 games for the American side.
The Mexican has the record for most goals in one MLS season and remains as an ambassador for LAFC.