Garcés returns after 128 days out: The 'kamikaze' defender Alavés couldn't do without
Facundo Garcés made his long-awaited return for Alavés against Espanyol after receiving a temporary reprieve from his controversial 12-month FIFA ban.
Argentine defender Facundo Garcés returned to action for Alavés after 128 days on the sidelines, helping secure a victory at Espanyol following a temporary suspension of his FIFA ban.
The Return of the ‘Kamikaze’
It’s been a proper dog’s dinner for Facundo Garcés these past few months. The Argentine defender hadn’t kicked a ball in anger since September 24th against Getafe, after FIFA slapped him with a 12-month ban for allegedly presenting “manipulated documentation” in an attempt to represent Malaysia internationally.
However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) has granted Garcés a temporary reprieve this week, allowing him to return to action while his appeal is considered. Manager Eduardo Coudet wasted no time throwing him back into the mix, bringing him on at half-time against Espanyol when Protesoni picked up a knock.
Straight Back to Business
Despite four months without competitive football, Garcés showed no signs of rust at the RCDE Stadium. He immediately got stuck in, dealing admirably with the aerial threat posed by Espanyol forwards Kike García and Roberto.
Coudet was absolutely chuffed with his defender’s performance, describing him in colourful terms after the match: “He’s a kamikaze. He’s a very important player within the group.”
The Alavés boss further emphasized the mental fortitude of his returning warrior: “The head rules in this sport and being mentally strong is what puts you in a different place. He is very strong. He hadn’t trained for four months and we put him in because we needed him.”
Crucial Piece Restored
Before his suspension, Garcés had been an ever-present figure in the Alavés backline, playing every minute of their first six La Liga matches this season. His return provides a massive boost for the Vitoria-based club as they continue their campaign.
For Coudet, having his trusted defender available again restores a key component to his tactical setup. The Argentine connection between manager and player has clearly been beneficial for both parties, with Garcés’ fighting spirit embodying the gritty determination Coudet demands from his squad.