Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Luis García (footballer, born 1978)
How Luis García (footballer, born 1978) built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Luis García, born in 1978, is a retired Spanish professional footballer best known as a versatile winger. He had a notable career, primarily remembered for his time at Liverpool, where he was part of the Champions League-winning team in 2005. García also played for other clubs in Spain and abroad, including Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. A technically gifted and creative player, he was known for his ability to score crucial goals and contribute to attacking play. He also represented the Spanish national team.
August 1998: First Competitive Appearance for Barcelona
On 18 August 1998, Luis García made his first competitive appearance for Barcelona, coming on as a substitute in a 2–1 defeat at Mallorca in the Supercopa de España.
2001: Loan to Valladolid
In 2001, Luis García was loaned to Valladolid for the second time, netting seven top-division goals in 25 matches.
2002: Sold to Atletico Madrid
In 2002, Luis García was sold to Atlético Madrid for €3.6 million.
August 2004: Signed by Liverpool
On 20 August 2004, Luis García signed for Liverpool for a fee of £6 million.
March 2005: Merseyside Derby Winner
On 20 March 2005, Luis García scored the winning goal in the Merseyside derby against Everton.
2005: UEFA Super Cup Winner
Early in the 2005 season, Luis García scored the third goal in Liverpool's 3-1 UEFA Super Cup final victory over CSKA Moscow.
2005: Champions League Triumph
In 2005, Luis Garcia's contribution in the Champions League triumph was marked by ten goals, five in the knockout stages.
2006: World Cup Qualification
In 2006, Luis García played for Spain during the World Cup qualification.
2006: 2006 World Cup
In 2006, Luis García represented Spain at the World Cup.
July 2007: Return to Atletico Madrid
In early July 2007, Luis García rejoined his former team Atlético Madrid for around £4 million.
November 2008: Return to Anfield
On 4 November 2008, Luis García returned to Anfield as a late substitute in a Champions League match against Liverpool, receiving appreciative applause.
August 2009: Signs with Racing de Santander
On 11 August 2009, Luis García reached an agreement with Racing de Santander.
August 2010: Signs with Panathinaikos
On 28 August 2010, Luis García signed a one-year contract with Greek club Panathinaikos.
July 2011: Moves to Puebla
On 1 July 2011, the 33-year-old Luis García moved to Mexican team Puebla.
June 2012: Signs with UNAM
In early June 2012, Luis García signed for another side in the Liga MX, UNAM.
July 2014: Joins Atlético de Kolkata
In July 2014, Luis García came out of retirement, joining newly formed Indian Super League franchise Atlético de Kolkata as their marquee player.
January 2016: Signs with Central Coast Mariners
On 16 January 2016, Luis García signed for Central Coast Mariners until the end of the campaign.
