in the final. His next two seasons continued good, but not quite as strong as the Spaniard's first season.

 

In 2007 he was sold to his former club Atletico Madrid. During his first season he played mainly as backup to Portugal's Simão Sabrosa. During 2008–09's league, however, he fell out of favour, appearing mainly as a late substitute and sometimes not even making the list of 18.

 

Upcoming years was not very successful for Garcia. 2009-2010 he played for Racing Santander without making a single goal, and the year after we moved to Greece and Panathanaikos scoring a single goal. After two season in Mexico, playing for Puebla and UNAM, García announced his retirement from football on January 14, 2014, 35 years old. 

 

ISL

In July 2014, García came out of retirement, joining Atlético de Kolkata as their 

Marquee player ahead of the league's inaugural season, the first of such players to

join the league. Upon his arrival Luis Garcia said "A few months ago I had decided

to retire because I missed the family and being at home. It was important for me

not to be away from home too long. I’m eager and excited to start a new and

different experience."

 

The 36-year-old became the only player in Kolkata's squad who actually had

played in the team's main club Atletico de Madrid during his career. In the

Atletico de Kolkata team he was also reunited with Josemi, whom he played

together with at Liverpool in 2004-05.

 

Garcia was additionally impressed by the players who ISL managed to attract and believed in football's chance for development in India. "They have brought world-class players to give the ISL more grandeur. A draft of the best of India has been made and they want the competition to grow and be a showcase to the world. This is country of cricket and they want football to attract many fans."

 

Despite being 36 years old, Garcia showcased his great skills. He became a major attacking part of the team and also acted team captain. Luis Garcia's first goal came in Kolkata's sixth match against Chennaiyin FC from the penaly spot. All in all, he played thirteen matches and scored two goals, although he often was substituted at the end of most matches. In the final against Kerala Blasters, Garcia sat on the bench throughout the match.

 

After the end of the season he was awarded with Manyavar Most Exciting Player award. The attacking midfielder was impressed by the fans' involvement during the tournament. "The first one, the opening, it was 80,000. Only because they needed to control or else the Salt Lake Stadium could receive 120,000. The attendance every week in our stadium was 30, 40, 50 (thousands) depending on the other team (they were scheduled to play with). It was very good."

 

POST-ISL

After the end of the tournament Garcia once again went into retirement, although he hinted that he would like to return to Kolkata for the second season if the opportunity was given. "Yes, if I can yes. I heard that they wanted me back but we don't have anything yet. I'm just waiting."