5 Arsenal flops who found success elsewhere

#3 Carlos Vela

Vela was a huge hit at Real Sociedad

Carlos Vela was the Golden Boot winner at the 2005 U-17 FIFA World Cup, which his side Mexico won. Following his performance, he attracted interest from several top European clubs and he eventually signed for Arsenal.

Vela spent two seasons on loan in Spain before returning to Arsenal. He played 62 games for the Gunners scoring 11 times before joining West Brom on loan.

The Mexican joined Real Sociedad permanently ahead of the 2011/12 season and formed a potent partnership with Antoine Griezmann. In the three seasons he played alongside Griezmann, Vela scored 47 goals. He was even voted the club’s Player of the Year in two of those seasons ahead of the Frenchman.

When Vela left Real Sociedad in August 2017 to join Los Angeles FC, he had 73 goals in 250 games. He has hit the ground running in the MLS, and has 12 goals in 25 games.

Vela has played 71 games for Mexico, scored 19 goals and won the CONCACAF Gold Cup twice and the CONCACAF Cup once.