Luis Garcia has revealed that his stint at the Central Coast Mariners is likely to end after this Saturday’s F3 Derby against the Newcastle Jets.
Speaking to local press at the Central Coast Mariners Centre of Excellence in Tuggerah this morning, the 37-year-old was typically honest with his response to reporters, saying: “It’s probably going to be my last game for Central Coast.”
“I would love to finish with a good result, with a good game.
“It’s always good to finish with a win, hopefully we can give it to the supporters and the team.
However, Garcia did not shut the door on an extended stay with the Mariners, or pursuing his A-League career with another club in the division.
“To be honest, I don’t know. Because I wasn’t expecting to come to the A-League a few months ago so that’s why I said it’s probably my last one because I don’t know what is going to happen.
Day off to enjoy a different sport!! Surfing on Toowoon Bay! #Australia #relaxmode #surf pic.twitter.com/lknrri4egO
— Luis Garcia (@LuchoGarcia14) April 3, 2016
The former Barcelona, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid playmaker revealed that while he and the Mariners have communicated regarding his future, a contract extension is yet to materialise.
Ahead of what is likely to be his final game for the Mariners, Garcia took the opportunity to thank the dedicated support base of the Mariners for supporting him and the club through a rough period of form.
“The supporters have been brilliant since I arrived. They always treat me so well, with so much respect and I will always be grateful for that. It’s always difficult when you arrive to a different country with different culture, to settle, and they [the fans] made everything easier.”
The European Cup winner also hopes that he leaves a lasting memory at the club, saying: “I would like the people to remember that I was here, that I enjoyed my time and that I tried to give my best for the team. That I tried to pass everything that I learned from my years in different leagues and hopefully the players here got something from that.”
In a trying period for the Mariners, who remain in transition after the departure of key talent earlier this season, were given a spark by the veteran Spaniard since his signing during the January transfer window.
Garcia’s contribution of a goal and two assists in the Mariners’ 3-1 triumph against Wellington Phoenix in Christchurch was a notable highlight, and a reminder of the quality he possessed at the peak his powers.
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
