Never go back is a saying that stands for situations both in and out of football. It’s often the case that re-signing a player who was so impressive the first time round ends in tears, because they cannot live up to their own reputation and ultimately ruin the memories for the fans. This is different, though, as Arsenal are being linked with a striker who never really made an impact at the club.
Carlos Vela spent three seasons at the north London club and scored just 11 goals in 62 games. It led to him being offloaded to La Liga side Real Sociedad, but his form has picked up significantly.
The 35-time Mexico international has since played 123 games for the Spaniards, and has scored 47 goals. But it is not only his goal tally that has improved, it has been his overall game.
Vela used to wait for things to happen at the Emirates, but he has added a huge amount of movement to his game and often carries the ball forward, rather than looking for it to come to him.
The speedy striker played 36 league games this season and scored 15, but he also created 78 chances for his team-mates – double that of Xabi Prieto who made the second most.
Although I wouldn’t usually be too happy with Arsenal re-signing a complete flop, on this occasion I think we should, even if it costs the £3 million being reported.
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