COLUMBUS, Ohio - In a hard-fought battle, LAFC's quest to secure back-to-back MLS Cups came to an end with a 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew. As the dust settles, the future of two key players, Giorgio Chiellini and Carlos Vela, remains uncertain.

At 39 years old, Chiellini, the veteran center-back, sat on a trainer's table in the visiting locker room, flexing his knee after more than 800 career games. Having played for both Juventus and the Italian national team, the emotional toll is weighing on him, and he may have just played his last game.

Chiellini will take some time to decompress and consult with his family before deciding on one of three options: a six-month return, another full season, or retirement as one of the all-time greats. LAFC general manager, John Thorrington, expressed admiration for Chiellini, highlighting his leadership qualities and the lasting impact he has made on the club.

Despite playing through pain in his knee during the game, Chiellini was not at fault for the Crew's two goals, reflecting his tireless commitment to the sport. Reflecting on the loss, he acknowledged the Crew's superior performance and credited their ability to exploit gaps in LAFC's defense.

Meanwhile, LAFC's star forward, Carlos Vela, faces an uncertain future as well. As one of the team's designated players, Vela has been the face of the club since its inception, playing a pivotal role in its success. However, his contractual situation is up in the air, with negotiations and budget considerations yet to be finalized.

Thorrington expressed the need for time to evaluate the roster, including Vela's status. While the club would ideally prefer the influential forward to return, financial considerations may impact the decision. Vela, who had a successful season with 21 goal contributions, has reiterated his happiness in Los Angeles but acknowledged the complexities of the business side of the game.

LAFC's disappointing loss brings into focus the team's future and potential changes in the roster. Five starters from the MLS Cup match, including Chiellini and Vela, are currently without contracts. The club's plan is to retain top goalscorer Denis Bouanga, who is under contract for several more years, but a lucrative transfer offer from Europe may complicate matters.

As LAFC prepares for the upcoming season, there are uncertainties looming over key players. The decisions made in the next few weeks have the potential to reshape the team and determine its competitiveness moving forward. Overall, LAFC's journey in the 2021 season, while falling short of their desired silverware, has been commendable, earning them a place among the top contenders in MLS.

As the offseason progresses, LAFC and its fans eagerly await news on the future of Chiellini, Vela, and the rest of the squad, hopeful for another shot at MLS glory in the seasons to come.