Panathinaikos announced the acquisition of 28-year-old forward Levi Garcia on loan from Spartak Moscow with a purchase option at midnight on Tuesday, Aug. 4. Garcia was present at OAKA on Wednesday, Aug. 5, to watch the match against CSKA 1948 in person before Panathinaikos FC published his first statements on its official YouTube channel on Thursday, Aug. 6.
Garcia said it was a pleasure to join the club as he sought a new step in his career. He stated that Panathinaikos showed strong interest in signing him, adding that he was already familiar with the history of the club and the atmosphere created by its supporters. He noted that he made the decision alongside his manager and the club to achieve their shared ambitions.
Return to Greek football
Having prior experience playing in Greece, Garcia explained that winning a title was a great feeling and expressed confidence in the current squad. He stressed the importance of staying united and taking every match step by step. He also admitted missing the Greek weather, noting that while life in Russia was good for him and his family, circumstances had changed.
Role on the pitch
Garcia stated that the coach and technical director fully convinced him after presenting their project and vision. He noted that he can make a difference whether deployed as a right winger or as a central attacker. When asked about a nickname, he said supporters could decide it, but emphasized that he wants to be a killer on the pitch.
