Carlos Vela is set to lead the attack against the current European Champions in the La Liga opener for his side this season.

The former Arsenal man has been with the Spanish side for six years now, being the standout player several times. After a poor run in the past few seasons, Vela is focused on redeeming his name in a break or make season. Fans are disappointed with his recent performance, so Vela would have to reshow what he did three seasons back to win back their love and possibly get a national team invitation by Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio.

Vela started his career from the age of 16, but soon impressed coach Arsene Wenger enough to make the switch to Arsenal FC after an impressive Under 17 youth championship. There, Mexico defeated Brazil to win the title. He ended up as one of the top scorers, aside contributing a goal in the 3-0 final result. He soon left Mexico and joined Wenger in a youth team he was building with the hope to change English football.

Vela didn’t quite meet his potential. It wasn’t surprising that he found himself at Real Sociedad in 2011. He couldn’t still prove himself, so he moved around clubs like Celta de Vigo, UD Salamanca, Osasuna and West Brom. Eventually, he found his level at San Sebastian playing for Real Sociedad. After their World Cup triumph for Mexico, Vela and Giovani dos Santos were the future of the Mexican team. Giovani spent years playing at Barcelona, Racing de Santander, Mallorca and Villarreal CF. Vela found his level again between 2011 and 2014, getting international call ups, while Dos Santos lost his spot.

Vela missed out of Copa America Centenario tournament as he wasn’t playing at top level aside other issues. There were rumours this summer that Vela was set to join Dos Santos in the MLS, but it turned out not true. The 27-year old has no option but to return to top level this season for Sociedad, and that begins with a strong performance when they take on Real Madrid.