Fran Garcia talks Real Madrid, Modric, Mbappe, Vinicius, Bellingham, Rodrygo | OneFootball

Speaking on on El Camino de Mario with Mario Suarez, Real Madrid left-back Fran Garcia made some interesting revelations about his career as well as his teammates.

The 26-year-old defender, an academy product of Real Madrid, left the club to join Rayo Vallecano, only to return after three seasons in the summer of 2023.

Garcia has become a valuable member of the squad, providing cover at left-back, although he has been unable to establish himself as a starter and his future remains uncertain.

During the interview, the Spanish left-back stunningly revealed that there was a point in time when he considered quitting football due to serious injuries.

“I was very close to quitting football. I considered it. Two dislocations, a fractured shoulder…,” he revealed.

On Real Madrid return

Regarding his return to Real Madrid, Garcia said it was unexpected, as he had everything agreed to move to Bayern Munich.

“In January, before the transfer window closed, an offer from Germany arrived. Rayo said that we had to speak to Real Madrid because they had a right of first refusal. Bayern paid the clause and it seemed done,” he revealed.

“Everything was packed to go to Germany. A few days later, Madrid called and told me: you stay at Rayo until the end of the season and then you come.”

Speaking about his first season back at Real Madrid, Garcia added: “We won the Champions League and the league. It was a dream come true and also a release. I have come back, I have done what I always wanted, it is like rewarding myself with this.”

The player who impressed him most when he arrived in the Real Madrid dressing room was Luka Modric.

“As a person, he’s a sweetheart. I still keep in touch with him. He’s the kind of guy you see and want to give a hug. Even though he was a bit grumpy in training, he’s a top-notch guy,” he said.

The left-back explained that he could have left in the summer, but “I have a contract and the club tell me they count on me, and staying here is something nice.”

Fran Garcia is in his third season at Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Regarding his objectives for this season, he said they are “to play and win titles”, adding that if Real Madrid do not win trophies “we will take a lot of criticism.”

On his teammates

During the interview, Fran Garcia also spoke about several of his teammates, starting with Vinicius Jr., whom he called ‘cheerful’ and ‘charismatic’.

“Vini is a very good person. A guy who, when he’s on the pitch, you can tell; he’s one of those who can solve any problem. This year I think he’s changed a bit, but he’s a guy who always has a smile on his face,” said Fran.

“He’s cheerful, he has charisma. He’s one of those who contributes to the team in the locker room.” 

Regarding Jude Bellingham, he added: “He does everything well, on and off the field. He’s phenomenal. He’s a top-notch guy.”

The left-back was also full of praise for Rodrygo, stating that the Brazilian forward does not always get the credit he deserves.

“He hasn’t been given the importance he really deserves, as if he’s always been a bit in Vini’s shadow. He doesn’t cause problems, he’s always willing, he never gives you a hard time, and for me, he’s the one with the most quality,” he said.

Regarding Kylian Mbappe, the full-back remarked: “I was one of the last to find out about his arrival.

“He adapts well to the dressing room. He’s a very good person, and his ability to create chances, his ease in getting past defenders – that’s a gift.

“He’s arriving in his first season and he’s the top scorer, and this year, I think he’ll be again. That’s a bonus, not only for him but for everyone else.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo