Real Madrid €25 million-rated defender’s future hinges on performance vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Getafe was crucial in the La Liga title race, but it came at a cost. Injuries to Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba have left Carlo Ancelotti with limited options for the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona this Saturday.

The initial plan was to start Camavinga at left-back, but he is out for the season while Alaba’s availability is also a doubt. With Ferland Mendy returning to training only recently after more than a month out, it leaves the manager with only one option – Fran Garcia.

A game that could decide Fran Garcia’s future

Now, according to Jorge Picon, the game against Barcelona on Saturday could decide the future of Fran Garcia at Real Madrid.

As per the report, internally, the Merengues are undecided about the 25-year-old defender’s long-term role. While his professionalism and athleticism are praised, there are concerns about his technical ceiling and vulnerability in one-on-one situations.

With Mendy recently renewed and Real Madrid considering alternatives for the left flank, Garcia’s future at the Bernabeu hangs in the balance.

Fran Garcia’s future on the line. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

If he gets the nod on Saturday, it will be the left-back’s first start in a Clasico where he will be tasked with facing Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s livewire in attack.

Should he start, his duel with Lamine will be closely watched. A strong defensive performance could shift internal opinions and strengthen his case to stay. On the other hand, a poor outing could reinforce doubts about his readiness for top-level demands.

Bournemouth interested

Even as Fran Garcia stares at an uncertain future at Real Madrid, Bournemouth, coached by Andoni Iraola, who managed him at Rayo Vallecano, are among several clubs showing interest.

Real Madrid, holding 100% of his rights since buying him back from Rayo in 2023, would be open to negotiating from a €25 million valuation.

And, whether he stays or goes could come down to what happens in Seville against Barcelona on Saturday.