Manchester City decided to release Aleix Garcia back in 2020 after five difficult years at the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens signed the Spaniard from Villarreal way back in 2015.
However, the Ulldecona-born maestro only made nine appearances before Manchester City decided to release him.
Now – at Girona – Aleix Garcia is finding his feet after a tough time at Manchester City…
What’s the story?
Well, the 26-year-old joined Dinamo București and then Eibar after leaving Manchester City.
Those moves did not work out, but Garcia is now thriving at Girona – who are owned by the City Football Group.
The Spaniard has scored three goals – while also providing four assists – in just 12 appearances so far this season.
Garcia’s efforts have helped Girona sit top of La Liga ahead of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
The Manchester City reject has also displayed superb leadership qualities at Girona, captaining the side in every game since the middle of September.
In a story from The Athletic which focuses on Girona’s rise, it is even said that Garcia is making a strong case to be the outright best midfielder in Spanish football, which speaks volumes when the likes of Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos also play in La Liga.
Timing was not right for Aleix Garcia at Manchester City
Manchester City obviously saw something in Garcia to bring him to the Etihad Stadium, but it has taken him a little longer than expected to realise his potential.
To put it simply, the timing was all wrong.
Not only was Garcia just a teenager when he arrived at Manchester City, but he also had the likes of David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Fernandinho and Ilkay Gundogan ahead of him in the pecking order.
Therefore, it was always going to be hard for him to make an impact at the Etihad Stadium.
Nevertheless, Garcia is now shining, and with Manchester City holding close links to Girona, a return to the Etihad Stadium cannot be ruled out if he continues to perform.
