KC Reporter

Manu García has brought experience and adaptability to Sporting Kansas City since joining the club. His career has taken him through several countries, including Spain, England, France, Greece, and now the United States. Each move has influenced his development as a player.

Since arriving in Kansas City, García has integrated quickly with both the team and the city. “There’s a really good group here, good people, and that makes a big difference,” he said. His connection is reflected in his performance on the field, where he recorded nine assists and two goals in his first season.

García also explored local culture by visiting various coffee shops around Kansas City. “I really like Café Corazón, Bisou, and Messenger,” he shared. “They’re probably the most well-known. There’s also one called Hi Hat, it’s this tiny little spot near the Plaza. It’s cool.”

On the pitch, García is known for his thoughtful style of play and ability to draw fouls from opponents. He commented on this aspect of his game: “Maybe because of my height,” García laughed. He added, “I’ve always been a player who gets fouled a lot.” Despite sustaining injuries—such as stitches from a head collision during a match against Charlotte FC—he continued to contribute to his team’s success.

García described himself as reflective and self-critical: “I think a lot about what I do and don’t do, the mistakes I make… Sometimes I’m too hard on myself.” This introspective approach influences both his conduct off the field and his decision-making during matches.

He noted a difference between his demeanor off and on the field: “I’m a bit meaner, more aggressive. On the field, you have to be more like a dog, scrappy, tough.” That contrast contributes to García’s presence as an effective midfielder for Sporting Kansas City.

The current season has tested García's endurance after playing nearly full campaigns in both Greece and Kansas City back-to-back. He said: “We didn’t start well, then improved, but we’re still struggling to get consistent results,” adding optimism by saying: "Still, we’re close."

García’s international background informs how he manages fatigue and prepares for competition over long seasons. His journey continues as he adapts both on and off the field in Kansas City.