According to a recent report from SPORT, Fran Garcia seriously considered leaving Real Madrid during the January transfer window.
The Spanish left-back was keen on a move after receiving interest from Bournemouth, but the Madrid hierarchy decided to shut the door on any potential departure.
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It must be remembered that the Premier League side made enquiries last month, sensing an opportunity due to the defender’s lack of minutes.
However, Real Madrid blocked the move, despite the player’s growing frustration.
Garcia was keen on the move
The report explains that Garcia was particularly attracted by the idea of reuniting with Andoni Iraola, who previously coached him at Rayo Vallecano.
Under Iraola, Garcia enjoyed regular football and played some of the best football of his career.
The opportunity to work with a coach who trusts him, combined with the promise of consistent minutes, made the Bournemouth option appealing.
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Notably, since Alvaro Arbeloa took charge, Garcia’s role has diminished sharply.
He was included in Arbeloa’s first match in charge against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, but was substituted after 64 minutes.
Fran Garcia wanted to leave Real Madrid in January. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
That appearance proved to be a brief glimpse rather than a turning point, as Garcia has not featured in subsequent line-ups.
Disappointment is evident
Arbeloa has instead preferred other solutions, as even Eduardo Camavinga has been used ahead of Garcia at left-back.
The situation has left Garcia watching from the bench, with academy players Jorge Cestero and David Jimenez even seeing more minutes than him.
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To put things in perspective, Garcia enjoyed far more visibility under Xabi Alonso.
In the 34 matches overseen by Alonso, the defender started 12 games and featured in 17 overall.
As such, Garcia still has a contract running until 2027, but his long-term future is far from secure.
A summer exit cannot be ruled out if he formally asks to leave and the club decide to open the door.
Much could also depend on whether Iraola remains in charge at Bournemouth, as his presence could once again make the Premier League a realistic and attractive destination.
