Jovic returns from the depths.

Luka Jovic is experiencing a resurgence in form.

Luka Jovic faced a crucial turning point last summer. The Serbian striker was considered Real Oviedo's number one target upon their return to La Liga. The deal, if completed, would have made him an iconic signing.

But things quickly fell apart. The Oviedo management frankly admitted that the cost of Jovic was too high, potentially even directly impacting the club's financial structure. The plan was therefore abandoned, and Jovic was forced to find another path.

His choice was AEK Athens, a destination outside of Europe's top five leagues. This decision was initially surprising. However, for Jovic, it was a necessary step back to rebuild his career. He admitted that he had gone through a period of mental fatigue and needed a less stressful environment to rediscover his passion for playing football.

His start in Greece wasn't easy. Jovic joined the team without a pre-season and also had fitness issues. He needed time to adapt. But once he got through that period, the striker born in 1997 began to show his best version.

After 36 matches, Jovic scored 19 goals, including 15 in the league. This performance made it his best season since 2018/19, when he had a breakout season at Eintracht Frankfurt. Beyond his goal contributions, Jovic also became more involved in the team's overall play, something he always desired but wasn't always given the opportunity to do at his previous clubs.

In Athens, Jovic is no longer a name that inspires doubt.

Jovic's form has been crucial in propelling AEK Athens into the title race. The team currently shares the top spot in the Greek Super League with 57 points, level with PAOK and Olympiacos. The door to a double title win remains wide open.

The next highlight in Jovic's journey is his reunion with Madrid. AEK will face Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League quarter-finals. This is a special return for the former Real Madrid striker, but in a very different role.

In Athens, Jovic is no longer a name to be doubted. He is loved by the fans and has become the centerpiece of the attack. His impressive performances, including the match where he scored four goals against Panathinaikos, have solidified his position.

More importantly, Jovic rediscovered the joy of playing football. He was no longer confined to the role of a "killer in the penalty box," but could play the way he wanted. For the Serbian striker, that was perhaps the biggest turning point.

From a disappointing signing at Real Madrid, Jovic is gradually making a comeback, quietly but convincingly.