Real Madrid Legend’s Bold Claim on Joan García

Paco Buyo, the illustrious former goalkeeper of Real Madrid, stirred the pot during his recent appearance on Radio Marca. In a candid conversation with hosts Alfonso Mansilla, Vicente Ortega, and Pipi Estrada, Buyo didn’t hold back as he reflected on his career and shared some intriguing insights. One of the standout revelations was his assertion that Real Madrid should have signed Joan García. “The club should have brought in Joan García,” Buyo declared passionately.

Buyo recounted how he had advised the club’s management to secure García’s transfer, suggesting a deal that involved cash and two Castilla players to prevent his move to Barcelona. Unfortunately for Buyo, his counsel fell on deaf ears. Now, as García thrives at Barcelona after leaving Espanyol, Buyo’s words carry even more weight. Despite Real Madrid’s current depth in goalkeepers, with Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin, the missed opportunity looms large.

A Glimpse into Buyo’s Memories

During the interview, Buyo also took a trip down memory lane, sharing anecdotes from his illustrious career. He recalled his early dreams of becoming a professional footballer at just 14 or 15 years old. His debut with Spain’s national team during the historic 12-1 victory over Malta remains one of his most cherished memories. “It was one of the most special nights of my life,” he reminisced.

The Golden Era and Locker Room Antics

Buyo fondly remembered training sessions with legendary players like Hugo Sánchez and Míchel. These sessions often included playful bets involving penalties and free kicks, fostering camaraderie among teammates. He humorously recounted a prank by Míchel involving a bag of unpleasant surprises hidden in a teammate’s new car engine.

Reflecting on modern football, Buyo remarked on the changes in the game, noting how players today live in a bubble compared to the more human connections of his era. He also emphasized the importance of goalkeepers being proactive, stating, “If you’re two meters tall and don’t leave your line, it’s problematic.”

To cap off his reflections, Buyo hailed the Santiago Bernabéu as “the temple, the best stadium in the world.” His words resonate not only as a tribute to the iconic venue but also as a reminder of the rich history and passion that define Real Madrid.