Former Real Madrid and Benfica midfielder Javi García has given an expansive interview to AS, touching on his time in Madrid’s academy, his formative years at Benfica, Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on his career, the Vinicius–Prestianni controversy, and even Álvaro Arbeloa’s role on the bench.
“Only the Best Make It to Real Madrid”
García began by revisiting his journey through La Fábrica and into the Real Madrid first team — a dream realized, though not fully fulfilled in the way he once imagined.
“Only the best make it to Real Madrid.
In the youth academy, I dreamed of reaching the first team, which I did, and succeeding. But staying at Real Madrid and playing a maximum of 20 games a season wasn’t enough for me. My father always told me it was a blessing that players could live in different countries and leagues because of how enriching it is. I appreciated that. To be a youth academy player and succeed at Real Madrid, you have to be exceptional. I’ll never complain about my time there; quite the opposite. My only regret is not living up to expectations”
Benfica: “The Real Madrid of Portugal”
If Madrid was the dream, Benfica was the place where he truly flourished.
“Yes. They were three great years (at Benfica). I identified with the club from day one. It’s like the Real Madrid of Portugal. I played alongside stars like David Luiz, Di María, Aimar, Saviola, Coentrao, Cardoso, Witsel… I still go to the Estádio da Luz as a fan to see all of Benfica’s matches, and I go with my daughters. The three of us are members, and we experienced that fierce rivalry with Sporting Lisbon and Porto.”
Cristiano’s Advice: “Don’t Even Think About It”
One of the most fascinating moments in the interview was García’s recollection of the summer he left Real Madrid — the same summer Cristiano Ronaldo arrived.
“When I went from Real Madrid to Benfica, It was the summer Real Madrid signed Cristiano. We were in preseason in Austria. I spent a couple of weeks with him. One day, it was published in the Portuguese press that my future might lie with Benfica. It was morning, and he came to find me at breakfast and asked if it was true. I took the opportunity to say, “What better advisor than Cristiano to tell me if it’s a good option for me or not?” I said, “Should I go or not, Cris?” He didn’t need to answer. With his gesture, he told me, “Javi, don’t even think about it.” He was right.”
Vinicius, Prestianni, and Racism: “They Should Be Punished”
García did not shy away from the recent controversy involving Vinicius Jr. and Prestianni — a flashpoint that has overshadowed an upcoming European clash.
“We were all wondering in the stadium what had happened between Vinicius and Prestianni. When you see Vinicius’s complaints, we understand what those comments Prestianni allegedly made might have been. It was a delicate and complicated moment. I’m a Benfica fan, but if comments like the ones that have been made were made, they should be punished, regardless of who the player is. It’s true that it’s a shame it happened. Because of this situation, we’re talking about this and not about Wednesday’s big match between two European giants. A real shame. They should make whatever decision they have to make, but if he made racist comments, which seems the most logical conclusion given what happened, then UEFA should take the measures they deem necessary.
“And not just in football. We’ve improved because almost everyone is fighting to eradicate it, but things always happen. You can’t control everything. But we’re on the right track.”
The Bernabéu Effect
With Real Madrid hosting Benfica, García expects a charged atmosphere — particularly in support of Vinicius.
“The Bernabéu will show its support for Vinicius more than ever, and that will do him good. We know he needs that affection and attention when he plays. He’ll want to prove himself and take center stage. It will help him. Benfica already knows what the Bernabéu is like and that the atmosphere will be tough. Mourinho knows how to work on the mental aspect, and I’m sure Benfica will be able to control those emotions. It won’t be a walk in the park for Madrid. It’s going to be a great match…”
Arbeloa and the Real Madrid Personality
Finally, García spoke about Álvaro Arbeloa and the pressure that comes with sitting on the Real Madrid bench.
“The pressure won’t affect Arbeloa. I know him very well. He has more than enough personality to be on that bench. To succeed at Real Madrid, you need personality and self-confidence when things get tough. He’ll continue to believe in his vision and pull through. Little by little, he’s getting things back on track, although it’s not easy. I see him as more consistent with the players, respecting what was previously planned. He’s fighting for La Liga and the Champions League. You should never count Real Madrid out. I wish Álvaro all the best. We spent three years together at Castilla, and he’s a fantastic person.”
