Los Angeles, Mar 28 (AFP) Reigning MLS Most Valuable Player Carlos Vela says he had a chance to join FC Barcelona earlier this year but his current side Los Angeles FC vetoed the deal.

Mexico's Vela said while it would have been a great opportunity for him in January he doesn't hold a grudge against his MLS employer.

"LAFC did not give me facilities to leave, although it is understandable. In the end, they seek the best for themselves and each for himself. I tried and it did not happen, and nothing happens because I am more than happy here," the forward told GQ Mexico magazine.

Vela, 31, said Barcelona offered him a four-month contract.

Vela has emerged as an MLS superstar with LAFC since arriving on a transfer from Spain's Real Sociedad in 2018.

Last year, Vela scored a MLS-record 34 goals in 31 games, with 15 assists. (AFP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)