Now that all the Carlos Vela debacle has been put to silence for good, it’s time to focus on what is ahead: the match Wednesday in Amsterdam against the Netherlands. Vela and Chicharito have both been named the starting forwards for the match and it seems as though Vela is being welcomed with open arms and being treated with no hard feelings or special treatment by Herrera. Let the past be in the past and let’s focus on some key points for Wednesday.
The chance for some youngsters to shine
While Carlos Vela’s position on El Tri brings excitement to the game, he is no stranger to being in the international spotlight. However, there are some anticipated somewhat new faces coming to play for the senior team that are definitely worth watching.; specifically, Jonathan Dos Santos. Dos Santos’ career with the international team has been very sporadic. He’s only made six total appearances with the team in the three years he was called up (2009-2012). However, age and more experience with clubs such as Barcelona and Villarreal have made Miguel Herrera believe that now is the time to bring him back.
Herrera’s opportunity to really pick and choose strong attacking players
Chicharito. Gio Dos Santos. Carlos Vela. Already a great starting trio to have up top and that’s not even all of his main available players. Without his domestic players, Herrera still has great potential for this game to see some magic happen between the three of them and decide if they work best together or with other domestic players.
Let's see if Vela is worth it
I know I said we were done talking about Vela but he is going to play so, what else is one expected to do? There's a reason that there was so much wonder and excitement about him coming back and his talent has really spoken for itself. That being said, it has been a while since he played with the team. Sure, they're all being friendly and smiling for the camera (have you been on instagram lately?), but it is important to remember why he was called in the first place and why Herrera wanted him to represent the nation. The Cancùn-raised veteran has stepped on the field before and it should be really enjoyable if he brings in the talent that fans and media alike are still clingling to.
A chance to continue showing this is more than just a friendly
Herrera has always been very upfront about the fact that no game is a game “just for fun.” He wants his players to enjoy themselves but puts a firm standard on how they should be playing. He treats his domestic players like his European players and is proud of every single one of them for the skill that they possess. He created an assertive standpoint when he became a coach and he continues that. This game against the Netherlands could not be a more perfect moment to continue to show that the buzz that took place during the World Cup has sizzled.