History of Luis García (footballer, born 1978) in Timeline
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.
June 1978: Luis García Born
In June 1978, Luis Javier García Sanz was born. He is a Spanish former professional footballer.
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.
January 2007: Knee Injury
On 10 January 2007, Luis García ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a game against Arsenal, sidelining him for at least six months.
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.
2013: Ranked in "100 Players Who Shook the Kop"
In 2013, Luis García ranked 34th in the poll of the 100 Players Who Shook the Kop, demonstrating his lasting impact on Liverpool fans.
January 2014: Retirement Announcement
On 14 January 2014, Luis García announced his retirement from football at the age of 35.
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.
2015: Not Retained by Kolkata
Due to concerns over his injury record, Luis García was not retained for the 2015 campaign by Atlético de Kolkata.
January 2016: Signs with Central Coast Mariners
On 16 January 2016, Luis García signed for Central Coast Mariners until the end of the campaign.
