Football
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Carlos Vela returns to Real Sociedad training after questionable absence

Mexico international Carlos Vela has returned to training with Real Sociedad after sitting out one day following a questionable absence.

Spanish media reports said Vela skipped training to attend a Chris Brown concert in Madrid over the weekend after photos of the striker appeared on social media. Vela reportedly told the club he had a bout of gastroenteritis. 

The 27-year-old faced a potential punishment and fine, but in the end, the club only sat the former Arsenal player for Wednesday's training. 

Teammate Xabi Prieto spoke on behalf of the club and Vela on Wednesday ahead of their match against Celta Vigo this weekend, saying that Vela had been "repentant."

At 27, Vela is more than 10 years removed from the golden boy who led Mexico to the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in 2005. Unlike players whose international careers are challenged by injuries, Vela's has been marked by disciplinary action.

His intemperate quarrel with the Mexican federation was based partly on a reaction to punishment meted out after he was judged to have been partying following a friendly in 2010. The saga cost Vela a spot on the 2014 World Cup squad.

He is struggling thus far with his worst season since going on loan to the Spanish club in 2012 after seven years with Arsenal and has scored just four goals in 27 games.

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