Real Madrid made the controversial decision to pull the plug on Fran Garcia's proposed move to Bournemouth. The Spanish full-back was set to join the Premier League club on loan and had even said his goodbyes to his teammates.
That was until Madrid decided to cancel the deal and Garcia was denied the chance to join Andoni Iraola's side. His response to this was one of frustration and he asked to train alone.
Garcia is thought to be looking to leave the Estadio Bernabeu at the end of the season. He has lacked regular game time, appearing just seven times in La Liga and only twice from the bench under Arbeloa.
Arbeloa on Real Madrid keeping Garcia
Garcia isn't likely to claim a starting berth in Arbeloa's team especially with Ferland Mendy returning from injury and competing with Alvaro Carreras for the left-back spot. This is why many thought a loan would be beneficial for all parties involved.
Arbeloa has opened up on Madrid's decision to prevent the 26-year-old from leaving. He didn't explain why but opted to praise his Spanish full-back (via Madrid Universal):
"Fran Garcia to England? He is an exceptional person who gives his all every day. As a coach, I love to emphasize that. His behavior and mindset are an example to follow; he represents the Real Madrid badge in the best way, I am very proud to have him on the team."
This doesn't clear up the reasons why Garcia was kept by Madrid especially with the team only competing in two competitions. There's no indication that Arbeloa had a say over the decision to keep the former Rayo Vallecano man.
Garcia will likely be sold this summer
Given Garcia's lack of first-team opportunities it seems that he may depart permanently this summer. If Mendy remains fit that possibility becomes increasingly likely because Madrid would have two left-backs available and battling it out for a starting role.
Garcia will have a year left on his contract at the end of the season which puts the club under pressure to cash in on him. But sending him out on loan to Bournemouth would have helped him get more football under his belt and potentially put more eyes on him regarding a potential sale.
The Spaniard has been at the Bernabeu since the summer of 2023 but is on the outskirts of the first team. He clearly wants more game time and that won't be happening in this Madrid team.