Real Madrid fans have been enjoying themselves in the last month or so. Without much to think about, it has been fun to see Real Madrid look like themselves again.
There have been some problems. Obviously, a new manager in Xabi Alonso and a new philosophy, with a couple of new players - it was bound to take time to settle in.
However, Real Madrid still look pretty darn good. They have won three out of their four matches, and have conceded just two goals in the process.
There has also been a re-emergence of sorts for a couple of players who Real Madrid fans did not necessarily rate that highly.
Real Madrid have brought one of their own from the dead
Fran Garcia is one of them. People owed him an apology after his brilliant performances as a starter, and now, there is a reason why that is the case.
Alonso has profiled Garcia really well, but the best part about it is that, according to MARCA, Garcia actually likes playing in this system and feels like it suits his skilset.
Real Madrid have not been blessed with good left-backs in the last couple of seasons. Multiple injuries, as well as Garcia's struggles with form and consistency, have left a lot to be desired.
That has meant Real Madrid look into the transfer market to sign a player, which they will try to after the Club World Cup with Alvaro Carreras, but they also need their number two option to be good.
Garcia, at the moment, is Real Madrid's only option, and he has felt good so far. It is a good thing for Real Madrid to have a decent left-back.
I also think the system suits him much better than even he anticipated at the start. Having three defenders behind him gives him more freedom to go up and attack the flanks, form overloads with the wingers. And when he returns, it gives him a lot to work with in terms of coverage.
Garcia can do good things with enough coverage around him, and I guess that is clear by his performances so far.